The Crested Kingfisher is
(Megaceryle Lugubris, Other common names: Himalayan Pied Kingfisher) a very
large kingfisher that is mostly native to Southern Asia and Japan. The Crested Kingfisher is a species of bird
in the Alcedinidae family. This bird is mainly found in Mountain Rivers and
larger rivers in the foothills of mountains. The bird is forms a species
complex with the other three Megaceryle species. It is resident in the
Himalayas and mountain foothills of northern India, Bangladesh, northern
Indochina, Southeast Asia, Japan and Russia. This eye-catching kingfisher is
easily recognized from its shaggy crest when at rest. The upper body is barred
black and white and has a white collar. The distinctive large kingfisher has
long crest feathers and average size is 41-43, 230-280 g.
The large black and white
kingfisher with evenly barred wings and tail, and lacks a supercilium and has a
spotted breast, which is sometimes mixed with rufous. This kingfisher has loud
“ket ket” in flight, also loud “ping”, deep croaks between paired birds, and
raucous grating. The kingfisher likes to eat fish, and crayfish, and perches on
an overhanging branch, partly submerged log or rock, occasionally bobbing head.
A notable decline has been observed in China, due to habitat destruction.
Moreover, it is not globally threatened. Although widespread and common in some
areas, but numbers have declined sharply during 20th century in Hokkaido, and
also in Hong Kong. Whether traveling by wing or by wheel, this attractive
kingfisher is pleased to perch anywhere in your home. Therefore, lifelike
markings are meticulously painted with latex enamel on poplar wood that has
been carved with a band saw. Each is unique and will vary.
