Don’t be fooled by the name—this jewel-toned kingfisher is more bush than bishop. Dressed in turquoise and cream, it perches quietly before launching at insects or small lizards with pinpoint precision.
Sacred Kingfisher
Todiramphus sanctus
Photo: Stephen Goldsworthy
Photo: Stephen Goldsworthy
Photo: Stephen Goldsworthy
Photo: Stephen Goldsworthy
Bird Description:
Special features:
They’re often seen near forests, wetlands, and mangroves, and their sharp ‘kek-kek-kek’ call gives them away before you spot them.
Did you know?:
Unlike the fish-diving stereotype, this kingfisher prefers land-based prey. You might spot one in your backyard, sitting still as a statue on a clothesline before pouncing on a passing beetle.
View more information on this bird at Birdlife Australia: https://www.birdsinbackyards.net/species/Todiramphus-sanctus
Habitat: Coastal
Location: 1770-Foreshore, 1770-Joseph Banks Cons Park Nth, 1770-Joseph Banks Cons Park Sth, 1770-Sandbar, Ocean Beaches
Size: Small
Type of bird: Kingfishers, Bee Eaters, Rollers