Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting)

The Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting) is a small species of kingfisher found in parts of Southeast Asia, including parts of the Indian subcontinent. Here are some key features and information about this bird:

Size: The Blue-eared Kingfisher is a small bird, typically measuring around 16 to 17 centimeters (6.3 to 6.7 inches) in length.

Plumage: Its most striking feature is its bright blue plumage on the head, back, and wings, giving it a vivid and eye-catching appearance. The blue coloration is often iridescent, shimmering in different shades depending on the light.

Underparts: The underparts of the Blue-eared Kingfisher are typically white or pale orange, contrasting with the vibrant blue of the upperparts. There may be slight variations in coloration among individuals and subspecies.

Bill: It has a long, straight, and pointed bill, which is well-adapted for catching small fish and aquatic invertebrates. The bill is usually black in color.

Head: In addition to the blue plumage, the Blue-eared Kingfisher has a distinctive white patch or stripe above and behind the eye, adding to its overall striking appearance.

Tail: The tail is short and squared-off, with blue feathers matching the rest of the bird's plumage.

Habitat: Blue-eared Kingfishers are typically found in wooded areas near streams, rivers, ponds, and other freshwater bodies. They prefer habitats with dense vegetation along the water's edge where they can hunt for prey and nest.

Behavior: Like other kingfishers, the Blue-eared Kingfisher is an adept hunter, often seen perching patiently near the water's edge before diving swiftly to catch fish.

Range: The Blue-eared Kingfisher is found in parts of Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

Voice: Its vocalizations include high-pitched whistles and calls, often heard during the breeding season.

Blue-eared Kingfisher bird  is found in parts of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the northeastern region. Its range in the Indian subcontinent includes areas such as northeastern India, Bangladesh, and possibly parts of Myanmar that border these regions.

Within this range, the Blue-eared Kingfisher inhabits wooded areas near streams, rivers, ponds, and other freshwater bodies. It prefers habitats with dense vegetation along the water's edge where it can hunt for prey and build nests.

However, it's worth noting that the Blue-eared Kingfisher's distribution within the Indian subcontinent is relatively localized compared to some other kingfisher species. It may not be as widely distributed or common as species like the Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) or the White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon smyrnensis), which are more widespread throughout the region.

Overall, while the Blue-eared Kingfisher does occur in parts of the Indian subcontinent, its range is limited compared to its distribution in other parts of Southeast Asia.