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Flat-billed kingfisher

Species of bird From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The flat-billed kingfisher (Todiramphus recurvirostris) is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae. It is endemic to Samoa.

Phylum:Chordata
Class:Aves
Quick facts Conservation status, Scientific classification ...
Flat-billed kingfisher
Upolu, Samoa
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Coraciiformes
Family: Alcedinidae
Subfamily: Halcyoninae
Genus: Todiramphus
Species:
T. recurvirostris
Binomial name
Todiramphus recurvirostris
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Distribution

Flat-billed kingfishers''' are found on the islands of Upolu and Savai'i in lowland and coastal areas.[2] They were not found in upland forests above 1,200m, most likely because food items become increasingly scarce with increased elevation.[2]

Description

The flat-billed kingfisher is a compact bird characterized by a comparatively short, shallow, and wide bill. It features deep blue wings, a greenish-blue back, and a blue cap. A distinct buffy-white patch is located in front of the eye, which narrows above it to form an eyebrow. Its underparts exhibit a cinnamon wash.The species produces a vocalization consisting of a series of short, sharp "kik" notes.[3]

Lifespan

In the wild, the flat-billed kingfisher has a typical lifespan of approximately 6 to 10 years. This lifespan is comparable to related small-to-medium alcedinid species, such as the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), which typically lives between 7 and 10 years. In contrast, larger family members like the laughing kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae) can exceed 15 years of age.[4]

Ecology

Like other species of kingfishers, the flat-billed kingfisher eats a variety of different food sources. However, they appear to be somewhat reliant on large insects and reptiles as part of their diet.[2]

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