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Belted Kingfisher Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Belted Kingfishers are stocky, large-headed birds with a shaggy crest on the top and back of the head and a straight, thick, pointed bill. Their legs are short and their tails are medium length and square-tipped.

    Relative Size

    Smaller than an American Crow; larger than a Hairy Woodpecker.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 11.0-13.8 in (28-35 cm)
      • Weight: 4.9-6.0 oz (140-170 g)
      • Wingspan: 18.9-22.8 in (48-58 cm)

    Shape of the Belted Kingfisher© Ilya Povalyaev / Macaulay Library