Ornithology/Coraciiformes

Ornithology

Coraciiformes
Coraciiformes is the group that includes the kingfishers. Its name means "Raven-like", even though the raven is not a part of this group. These birds are typically colorful, with three forward-pointing toes.

Kingfishers (Alcedinidae)
This family contains 114 species and is divided into three subfamilies: river, tree, and water kingfishers. The Belted Kingfisher is part of the water kingfishers (Cerylinae). All members of this family have large heads, long, sharp, pointed bills, short legs, and stubby tails. Kingfishers are generally monogamous and nest in the ground (cavity nesters), and typically have white and glossy eggs. Kingfishers have a wide diet, from fish to insects, but the Belted Kingfisher specifically specializes in eating fish.