Hubbry Logo
Azure kingfisherAzure kingfisherMain
Open search
Azure kingfisher
Community hub
Azure kingfisher
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Azure kingfisher
Azure kingfisher
Azure kingfisher
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Azure kingfisher
A. a. ruficollaris
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Coraciiformes
Family: Alcedinidae
Subfamily: Alcedininae
Genus: Ceyx
Species:
C. azureus
Binomial name
Ceyx azureus
(Latham, 1801)
Subspecies
  • C. a. azureus Latham, 1801
    Eastern and southeastern Australian population
  • C. a. ruficollaris (Bankier, 1841)
    Northern Australian population
  • C. a. diemenensis (Gould, 1846)
    Tasmanian population
  • C. a. lessonii (Cassin, 1850)
    Southern New Guinea population
  • C. a. affinis (G.R. Gray, 1860)
    North Maluku population
  • C. a. yamdenae (Rothschild, 1901)
    South Banda Sea population
  • C. a. ochrogaster (Reichenow, 1903)
    Northern New Guinea population
Synonyms

Alcedo azurea

The azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) is a small kingfisher in the river kingfisher subfamily, Alcedininae.[2]

Description

[edit]

The azure kingfisher measures 17–19 cm (6.7–7.5 in) in length,[2] and the male weighs 29–32 g (1.0–1.1 oz) while the female is slightly heavier at 31–35 g (1.1–1.2 oz).[3] It is a very colourful bird, with deep blue to azure back, a large white to buff spot on the side of the neck and throat, rufous-buff with some blue-violet streaks on the breast and flanks.[4] The feet are red with only two forward toes.[4] The lores (the region between the eye and the bill) are white and inconspicuous except in front view, where they stand out as two large white eye-like spots which may have a role in warding off potential predators.

Azure kingfisher showing large white eye-like lores

Taxonomy

[edit]

The subspecies (see box at right) differ only in minor details: compared with the nominate subspecies Ceyx azureus azureus, C. a. ruficollaris is smaller, brighter, and has more blue on the flanks; C. a. diemenensis is rather large, short-billed, and has a distinctly darker crown; C. a. lessoni is more contrasting, with little blue on the flanks; C.a. affinis has a red billtip, as has the smaller C.a. yamdenae; and C. a. ochrogaster is very pale below. Still, there is very little intergradation in the areas where subspecies meet. Comparing subspecific variation with climate data, the former's pattern does not follow and in some instances runs contrary to Bergmann's Rule and Gloger's Rule.[5][3]

The generic name Ceyx (/ˈsiːɪks/) derives from Ancient Greek: Κήϋξ, romanized: Kēüx, a mythological seabird that was drowned at sea and then found washed ashore by his wife Alcyone, after which both were metamorphosed into kingfishers.[6] The specific epithet is Mediaeval Latin azureus, 'azure'.[6]

Distribution and habitat

[edit]

The azure kingfisher is found in northern and eastern Australia and Tasmania, as well as the lowlands of New Guinea and neighbouring islands, and out to North Maluku and Romang. The contact zone between the mainland Australian subspecies is along the east coast of Far North Queensland, between Cairns and Princess Charlotte Bay,[5] and that of the New Guinea ones between Simbu Province and the northern Huon Peninsula, as well as south of Cenderawasih Bay.[3]

The habitat of the azure kingfisher includes the banks of vegetated creeks, lakes, swamps, tidal estuaries, and mangroves.[2][4]

It is common in the north of its range, tending to uncommon in the south.[4] It is generally sedentary, although some seasonal migration may occur.[4]

Behaviour

[edit]

Feeding

[edit]

The azure kingfisher feeds on small fish, crustaceans (such as shrimps, amphipods and freshwater yabbies), water beetles, spiders, locusts, and small frogs or tadpoles.[3] It is often difficult to see until it quickly darts from a perch above water.

Breeding

[edit]

The breeding season of the azure kingfisher is from September to April in northern Australia and from August to February in southern Australia, sometimes with two broods.[3] The nest is in a chamber at the end of a 1 m (3 ft 3 in) long burrow in an earthen creek bank.[2] A clutch of 4–6 white, rounded, glossy eggs, measuring 22 mm × 19 mm (0.87 in × 0.75 in), is laid.[4] Both parents incubate the eggs for 20–22 days, and then feed the hatchlings for a further 3 to 5 weeks.[4][3] The nests are occasionally destroyed by floods and their contents may be taken by the brown snake.[3]

Voice

[edit]

The azure kingfisher is usually silent, but makes a sharp, squeaky call when breeding.[4] Its voice is a high-pitched, shrill "pseet-pseet", often in flight.[3][2]

Conservation status

[edit]

Although the population of azure kingfishers is decreasing, their wide distribution enables classification as a species of least concern on the IUCN Red List.[1]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Azure kingfisher

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The (Ceyx azureus) is a small, strikingly colored in the river Alcedinidae, measuring 17–19 cm in length with a long, slender black bill, short tail, and vibrant plumage featuring deep azure blue upperparts and head with a violet sheen, pale orange throat, reddish-orange underparts, and distinctive orange stripes on the neck and spots before the eyes. Previously classified as Alcedo azurea, it was reclassified to the genus Ceyx based on phylogenetic revisions in 2014. Native to , this non-migratory species prefers shaded freshwater habitats such as rivers, creeks, billabongs, swamps, and mangroves with overhanging vegetation, occasionally appearing in urban ponds or estuaries, at elevations from to 1,520 m. Distributed across northern and eastern (from the Kimberley to Victoria and including ), the lowlands of , the Moluccas, Lesser Sundas, and surrounding Indonesian islands, the azure kingfisher occupies an extent of occurrence spanning approximately 12,000,000 km². It is a resident breeder, typically silent but issuing a high-pitched ("pee-ee") during flight, and often perches low over water to hunt, sometimes observing platypuses to exploit disturbed prey. The diet consists mainly of small fish, crustaceans, , and occasional frogs or , captured via shallow plunges from perches and bashed on branches before being swallowed head-first. Breeding occurs from September to January in monogamous pairs, with nests constructed as upward-sloping burrows (80–130 cm long) dug into steep riverbanks or earthen slopes, leading to a chamber where 4–7 white eggs (usually 5) are laid. Both parents share incubation duties for about 21 days, and the chicks after roughly 28 days in the nest, though flooding poses a significant risk to breeding success. Pairs defend territories aggressively during the breeding season. Classified as Least Concern on the in 2024, the global population size remains unknown but is trending downward due to threats including river , increased water turbidity from invasive common carp (Cyprinus carpio), and loss from degradation. Conservation efforts include recovery plans in and identification of key sites across its range to mitigate these pressures.

Taxonomy

Classification history

The azure kingfisher bears the binomial name Ceyx azureus (Latham, 1801), originally described as Alcedo azurea in Latham's Supplementum Indicis Ornithologici. The genus name Ceyx derives from the Κήυξ (Kēux), a mythological figure and son of Eosphorus who was transformed into a after drowning at sea, while the specific epithet azureus is for "blue", referencing the bird's vivid azure . The species is placed in the family Alcedinidae (river ) and the subfamily Alcedininae. Originally classified within the widespread genus , the azure kingfisher was reassigned to Ceyx in subsequent taxonomic revisions following a molecular phylogenetic study published in 2006, which demonstrated that Alcedo as traditionally defined was not monophyletic and that the azure kingfisher diverged early from Old World species, instead aligning more closely with Australasian river . DNA-based analyses confirm its phylogenetic proximity to other small Australasian s, particularly forming a with the little kingfisher (Ceyx pusillus) and Bismarck kingfisher (Ceyx websteri), reinforcing the generic placement in Ceyx.

Subspecies

The azure (Ceyx azureus) is divided into seven recognized , primarily distinguished by variations in coloration, size, bill length, and wingspan. These differences are most evident in dorsal coloration and the extent of blue on the head and flanks, reflecting adaptations to local habitats across their range in , , and nearby islands. The are recognized based on these morphological traits. The following table summarizes the subspecies, their distributions, and key distinguishing features:
SubspeciesGeographic DistributionDistinguishing Features
C. a. azureus (nominate)Eastern and southeastern (from Cooktown south to Victoria)Rufous loral spot, white neck patch, ultramarine-blue upperparts, orange- breast and belly, violet flanks; female slightly duller; juvenile duller with larger whitish bill tip.
C. a. affinisMorotai, , and Bacan (northern Moluccas)Brighter blues, reddish bill tip, longer wing.
C. a. diemenensisLarger size, darker crown and rump, more violet-blue overall.
C. a. lessoniiLowlands of , western Papuan islands, and Darker upperparts, paler underparts, less violet on flanks.
C. a. ochrogasterIslands in Geelvink Bay (northern ), Karkar Island, and Paler underparts.
C. a. ruficollaris (from the Kimberley east to Cooktown)Richer colors, shorter wing and tail, longer bill.
C. a. yamdenaeRomang (eastern Lesser Sundas) and Smaller size than affinis.

Description

Physical characteristics

The azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) is a small , measuring 17–19 cm in total length, with a of 25–29 cm and a body mass ranging from 29–35 g. It possesses a compact body structure featuring a large head, short , and short legs, which support its agile perching and diving behaviors along waterways. The species is characterized by a prominent, long, straight, dagger-like bill, which is adapted for spearing small aquatic prey such as and during shallow dives. Its feet exhibit , with the outer and middle toes partially fused at the base, enhancing grip on slender perches like branches overhanging water. Sexual dimorphism is minimal, though females tend to be slightly heavier than males on average. Juveniles display duller overall coloration compared to adults.

Plumage and coloration

The adult azure kingfisher exhibits striking plumage characterized by deep azure-blue upperparts, including the head, , back, wings, and tail, often with a subtle violet or purplish iridescent sheen that enhances its visual appeal in dappled light. The crown and back display this iridescent blue prominently, while the breast sides feature a blue band extending from the azure upperparts. Underneath, the bird has or orange-reddish underparts, with the belly and undertail-coverts in a vivid orange tone; the and throat are white to pale orange-white, accented by large white or buff spots on the sides of the and small orange spots before each eye. Flanks and sides of are washed with to violet hues, creating a patterned contrast against the brighter rufous areas. Sexual differences in plumage are minimal, with males and females appearing nearly identical in coloration and , though some observations suggest subtle variations in intensity that do not reliably distinguish the sexes. Juveniles possess plumage similar to adults but overall duller and paler, with a darker cap and buffy or less saturated edges on some feathers, particularly noticeable in the blue upperparts. They also feature a larger whitish tip on the bill, which fades with age. The azure kingfisher's serves adaptive roles, with the iridescent blue upperparts providing in the shaded, reflective environments of riparian zones by mimicking water surfaces and foliage shadows, while the contrasting underparts and bright accents function in visual signaling during displays and territorial interactions.

Distribution and

Geographic range

The azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) occupies a range spanning northern and eastern , from the Kimberley region in eastward to Cooktown in , and southward to Victoria, including the island of . It is also found in the lowlands of , from the Mamberamo River in the north to the Wahgi Valley in the south, as well as on associated islands such as Karkar and the . Additionally, the species occurs in , including the northern Moluccas (Morotai, , and Bacan) and the eastern Lesser Sundas (Romang and the ). The global population size of the azure kingfisher has not been quantified and is suspected to be decreasing due to habitat degradation. In , the species is considered uncommon to rare in the southern parts of its range, with the Tasmanian subspecies (C. a. diemenensis) estimated at 250–400 mature individuals as of 2023. Populations in are generally more abundant in lowland areas compared to Australian regions. The azure kingfisher is largely sedentary and resident across its distribution, with no regular long-distance migrations recorded. Juveniles disperse varying distances from natal sites, and some non-breeding adults may wander widely, potentially leading to sporadic records outside core areas. Historically, the species has undergone range contraction in , particularly in Victoria, where many pre-2000 records from regions such as the Victorian Volcanic Plain, Wimmera, South-west coast, South , and North East Victoria lack corresponding recent sightings, attributed to habitat clearance and degradation.

Habitat preferences

The azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) primarily inhabits riparian zones along creeks, rivers, lakes, swamps, s, and tidal estuaries, where overhanging vegetation provides perches for hunting and shelter. These birds select areas with dense, shady cover, such as riverine forests dominated by eucalypts, wet , or mixed woodland, often featuring trees and shrubs that extend over the water's edge. In coastal regions, they frequent habitats above the high tide line, while inland they favor well-vegetated freshwater systems. Essential habitat features include clear, slow-flowing or still waters that support aquatic prey, with dense riparian vegetation like paperbarks (Melaleuca spp.) and ferns offering concealment and nesting opportunities. The species avoids fast-flowing streams or open water bodies lacking cover, as these limit foraging efficiency and exposure to predators. It tolerates brackish conditions in estuaries and saline lagoons but thrives in freshwater environments with shallow, prey-rich margins. This kingfisher occurs from sea level up to 1,520 m elevation, particularly in New Guinea's lowlands and montane forests. Pairs maintain year-round territories along watercourses, typically spanning 200–1,600 m of shoreline or riverbank, centered on areas with consistent access to shallow zones.

Behavior

Diet and feeding

The Azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) is primarily piscivorous, with its diet dominated by small fish such as Galaxias species, Retropinna semoni, and Gambusia holbrooki, supplemented by crustaceans including freshwater (Parastacidae) and (Paratya australiensis), as well as aquatic like and nymphs. Occasionally, it consumes amphibians such as frogs, beetles, and other terrestrial when available near water edges. The bird employs a sit-and-wait strategy, perching on low overhanging branches, rocks, or artificial structures above or near water before plunging headfirst to capture prey in shallow dives. It may also use a sally-hover technique, briefly hovering 2–3 m above the surface, or opportunistically exploit disturbed prey, such as stirred by platypuses or fishing activities. Captured prey is typically bashed against the perch to stun it and orient it headfirst before being swallowed whole. Foraging occurs throughout the day and into the night, with birds often active from dawn to dusk along linear stretches of waterways, where they defend small, permanent territories spanning riverbanks or creek edges. These territories are typically maintained by pairs and focus on areas with abundant prey near shady vegetation overhanging freshwater habitats. Adaptations for aquatic hunting include a long, slender black bill suited for precise strikes on slippery prey in , and keen eyesight that enables accurate prey detection and pursuit , similar to other river kingfishers.

Breeding biology

The azure kingfisher exhibits a monogamous , with pairs forming strong bonds that often persist year-round and defending linear territories along watercourses typically measuring 0.2–1.6 km in length. Courtship involves mutual between partners and males presenting fish offerings to females. In , the breeding season generally spans September to January, extending to April in northern regions and starting as early as August in southern areas, coinciding with the wetter months when rainfall increases prey availability. Pairs in southeastern , such as in Victoria, occasionally raise two broods per season. Nesting occurs in self-excavated tunnels within steep earthen riverbanks or occasionally mounds, with both sexes cooperating to dig horizontal burrows 15–88 cm long that slope slightly upward to prevent flooding. The female lays a of 4–7 glossy white, oval eggs, averaging 5 in , directly onto the bare soil at the tunnel's end without constructing a nest lining. Both parents share incubation duties, which last 20–22 days, during which the non-incubating partner provides food to the sitting . The altricial chicks hatch blind and naked, receiving biparental care throughout their development. Both adults forage for small , aquatic invertebrates, and , delivering whole prey items to the nestlings via regurgitation or direct transfer in the bill. The chicks remain in the nest for 26–33 days, fledging fully feathered but dependent on parents for continued feeding for several additional weeks; the nest chamber often accumulates and uneaten food remnants by fledging.

Vocalizations and communication

The azure kingfisher is generally silent, particularly when hunting or resting, but produces distinct vocalizations in specific contexts such as flight and alarm situations. Its primary call is a short, repeated, high-pitched "pseet" emitted while in flight, serving to announce its presence along waterways. This is complemented by a high thin , described as "pee-ee, pee-ee," also given during flight. When alarmed, the bird issues repeated shrill calls to deter potential threats. During the breeding season, vocal activity increases, with sharp, squeaky notes used in interactions near nests, likely aiding in pair coordination and defense. produce twittering begging calls or thin, feeble squeaks to solicit food from parents. Non-vocal communication includes wing-waving displays accompanied by continuous high-pitched whistles, performed by pairs or groups during . Observations also note bobbing, crouching, and beak-clapping during pair interactions, contributing to territorial and mating signals.

Conservation

Population status

The Azure kingfisher (Ceyx azureus) is classified as Least Concern on the as of 2024. This status reflects its extensive distribution across , eastern , , , and parts of , which buffers against localized pressures despite an overall decreasing population trend. The global population size has not been quantified, though the species is described as common and widespread in much of while being more patchily distributed and less abundant in . In Tasmania, where it is considered a subspecies (C. a. diemenensis), estimates indicate 250–400 mature individuals as of 2025. Population trends indicate a slow global decline, not rapid enough to meet thresholds for higher threat categories, though local decreases are evident in parts of such as Victoria due to habitat changes; however, the Tasmanian population appears stable and no longer declining as of 2024. Monitoring occurs through platforms such as eBird, which tracks relative abundance and distribution changes, and national surveys in regions like Victoria and . The species' broad geographic range helps offset localized threats, maintaining its Least Concern designation despite ongoing declines in specific areas.

Threats and conservation measures

The azure kingfisher faces significant threats from habitat loss driven by and , which degrade riparian vegetation critical for perching, nesting, and foraging along waterways. River and elevated water , particularly from the introduction of common carp ( carpio), reduce visibility for hunting small fish and , contributing to suspected population declines. Additional risks include habitat disruption from construction and fluctuating water levels that can flood nest sites. Conservation measures focus on habitat protection and restoration across the species' range. In , the azure kingfisher is safeguarded within national parks such as Kakadu and Daintree, where riparian zones are managed to maintain intact waterways and minimize human disturbance. Legal protections under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and state legislation, including endangered status for the Tasmanian subspecies under the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, support and restrict development in key areas. Riparian restoration projects in emphasize revegetation of stream banks to enhance prey availability and nesting opportunities, complemented by water quality regulations that address from agricultural runoff. Ongoing efforts include population surveys and monitoring, particularly in , where assessments of , prey abundance, and threat levels guide targeted interventions like private land covenants for protection. However, the Tasmanian subspecies lacks a dedicated recovery plan as of 2025, prompting calls for enhanced management. In and , the benefits from broader initiatives, though specific actions remain limited; general standards under national environmental laws help curb in shared river systems. Recovery outlines from the 2000 for Australian Birds recommend management and connectivity measures, such as establishing corridors to link fragmented riparian areas. BirdLife International's monitoring programs advocate for enhanced invasive control, including management, to mitigate and support long-term population stability.

References

  1. https://australian.museum/learn/animals/birds/azure-kingfisher/
  2. https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/azure-kingfisher-ceyx-azureus
  3. https://collections.museumsvictoria.com.au/species/8173
  4. https://avibase.bsc-eoc.org/species.jsp?avibaseid=AC4118FAD2F319D0
  5. https://biodiversity.org.au/afd/taxa/Ceyx_azureus
  6. https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/azukin1/cur/introduction
  7. https://www.threatenedspecieslink.tas.gov.au/pages/tasmanian-azure-kingfisher.aspx
  8. https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/topics/wildlife/2023/02/australias-fabulous-kingfishers/
  9. https://www.scienceofbirds.com/blog/alcedinidae-kingfishers
  10. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Syndactyl-arrangement-of-the-toes-of-some-coraciiform-birds-Shown-are-a-roller_fig1_331533982
  11. https://www.swifft.net.au/cb_pages/sp_azure_kingfisher.php
  12. https://earthlife.net/azure-kingfishers/
  13. https://mdahlem.net/birds/14/azurking.php
  14. https://florafaunafun.com/characteristics-of-a-kingfisher/
  15. https://asknature.org/strategy/structures-create-colorful-feathers/
  16. https://nre.tas.gov.au/Documents/Tasmanian-Azure-Kingfisher-listing-statement.pdf
  17. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-07/tasmanian-azure-kingfisher-endangered/102940696
  18. https://www.threatenedspecieslink.tas.gov.au/Pages/Tasmanian-Azure-Kingfisher.aspx
  19. https://www.boroondara.vic.gov.au/services/environment-and-sustainability/wildlife-biodiversity-and-gardening/birds
  20. https://www.hboc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/Azure-Kingfisher-observations-The-Whistler-Vol-16.pdf
  21. https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/azukin1/cur/breeding
  22. https://xeno-canto.org/species/Ceyx-azureus
  23. http://bioacoustics.cse.unsw.edu.au/archives/html/birding-aus/2000-05/msg00104.html
  24. https://www.parliament.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0035/97298/2025-09-25-DrWoodruff.pdf
  25. https://www.planning.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/782605/SOE-Report-2024-Vol.2.2_27-September-2024.pdf
  26. https://science.ebird.org/status-and-trends/species/azukin1/abundance-map
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.