These pictures were taken from a hide in Karnala. The nest was between the hide and the perch. All pictures are edited for clarity and no objects were removed or added. The picture is however cropped to suit my needs. Since most of the information about birds are available on the net, i have tried to consolidate them here in the writeup with the relevant links to the source. If there are any errors, please do let me know so i can correct them.
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher (*Ceyx erithaca*), also known as the Black-backed Kingfisher, is a strikingly colorful and compact bird, notable for several unique aspects that distinguish it from other kingfisher species.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Coloration
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is one of the smallest kingfisher species, measuring approximately 12.5–14 cm in length. It is characterized by its vibrant plumage, which includes a lilac-rufous crown, dark blue back, and pale yellow-orange underparts. The bird’s bright colors make it a favorite among bird watchers and photographers, often described as a “rainbow incarnate” due to its vivid hues.
Sexual Dimorphism
Interestingly, males and females of this species are visually indistinguishable, which is relatively uncommon among birds. Both sexes share the same striking coloration, although males tend to be slightly larger than females.
Habitat and Distribution
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is primarily found in dense, shaded lowland forests across Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, and various regions in Southeast Asia. It prefers habitats near small streams and ponds, where it can hunt for its primary food sources.
Feeding Behavior
Unlike many kingfishers that primarily feed on fish, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher has a diet that mainly consists of insects, small lizards, frogs, and other small invertebrates. It employs a unique hunting technique, where it hovers above the water or perches on a branch to spot prey before diving in at high speeds, sometimes exceeding 40 km/h.
Nesting and Breeding
The nesting behavior of the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is also noteworthy. It typically nests in tree cavities or burrows near water sources, and its breeding season is influenced by local climatic conditions, particularly the onset of the monsoon in its habitat regions.
Unique Adaptations
One of the most fascinating adaptations of the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is its vision. Each eye contains two foveae, allowing it to adjust its focus and depth perception when transitioning from air to water, which is crucial for accurately capturing prey.
Color Variants
There are two distinct color forms of the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher: the black-backed form and the rufous form. The differences in coloration have led to discussions among ornithologists about whether these variants should be classified as separate species. This regional color variation is relatively rare among birds and adds to the intrigue surrounding this species.
In summary, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is not only notable for its stunning appearance but also for its unique feeding habits, nesting behaviors, and adaptations that enhance its survival in dense forest environments.
References:
1. https://greenverz.com/the-enchanting-world-of-the-oriental-dwarf-kingfisher/
2. https://earthlife.net/oriental-dwarf-kingfishers/
3. https://www.australiangeographic.com.au/blogs/creatura-blog/2014/05/oriental-dwarf-kingfisher/
4. https://indianbirds.in/pdfs/IB4.3_PalkarETAL_DwarfKingfisher.pdf
5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black-backed_dwarf_kingfisher
