Belted Kingfisher

Megaceryle alcyon

Overview

The Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is a species of kingfisher (family Alcedinidae) in the order Coraciiformes of bird (class Aves).

Description

A medium sized bird. Large head with a shaggy crest, grey-blue head, white collar, a large grey breast band and white underparts. A long heavy black bill with a grey base. The female has a rufous band across the belly. The adult female is on average slightly larger than the adult male.

Range

Found near inland bodies of waters or coasts across most of North America, within Canada, Alaska and the United States.