ABOUT Alcedo atthis

A passing migrant through Cyprus and the Akamas peninsula during spring (March – April) and autumn (end of August – October). It’s seen mostly along the shoreline of the Akamas, and also along some streams or small natural pools in the area.

It feeds mainly on small fish and other aquatic organisms, catching them after a sudden, almost vertical dive. It’s often seen flying fast and low over the water’s surface, like a green-blue arrow.

It has characteristic bright coloration, a relatively long beak and an upright posture. Its back and head are sky-bluish-green (turquoise), the chest and the belly are orange-reddish, the throat is white, the beak is black (with some pink for the female).

Alcedo atthis

European Kingfisher

Did you know...

It’s often seen flying fast and low over the water’s surface, like a green-blue arrow.