Primarily found in Southeast Asia, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx erithaca) is a captivating species of bird. Its unique cry and vivid coloring set it apart from its brethren. Since its discovery more than 150 years ago, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher has enthralled onlookers with its beautiful plumage and mysterious behavior.
More research should be done on the intriguing animal known as the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. Its vivid hues set it apart from other fauna, and scientists all across the world are still intrigued by its enigmatic nature.
Habitat And Distribution
Small birds of the Oriental dwarf kingfisher species are indigenous to Southeast Asia. Throughout its range, this species has been documented in tropical forests and wetland habitats; some populations have also been discovered near coastal areas.
The primary habitat of the oriental dwarf kingfisher is low-lying vegetation found next to bodies of water, including lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams. Near these water sources, they are typically observed sitting on branches or plants. They are found throughout Southeast Asia, stretching from Burma to Malaysia and Singapore, and extending eastward from India. There are a few isolated pockets found elsewhere, but this large area is home to the majority of their population.
About the grounds for breeding:
1) In India, the Western Ghats region of Kerala is where most of the birds have been sighted;
2) They often live in the Pegu Yoma mountain range in Myanmar;
3) The largest wetlands on Sumatra Island are where their presence is most regularly observed;
4) Depending on the season, they live on both sides of Kalimantan province in Borneo Island.
Smaller streams or densely wooded riverbanks are generally preferred by them because they provide year-round access to food and the connected banks facilitate their ability to find tree cavities for nesting. The loss and fragmentation of suitable habitats caused by human encroachment upon a large portion of their natural ecosystem has put Oriental dwarf kingfishers in danger and reduced their chances of successful reproduction.
Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher Physical Characteristics
The body length of the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher ranges from 10 to 11 centimeters, making it a small bird. Its range and population determine the color of its plumage, which ranges from blue-black to brown above and white bottom with some orange markings on the head.
With twelve feathers, the dwarf kingfisher’s tail is nearly twice as long as its body as a whole. In addition, this species displays unusual behaviors including flying near foliage in search of food or lingering over water before diving in after prey.
The primary food sources for the oriental dwarf kingfisher are the insects, fish, crabs, amphibians, and mollusks that are present in these open woods along rivers and streams. Furthermore, because of their small home ranges, they frequently display aggressive territorial behavior to keep predators and intruders out of their habitats.
Conservation Status
Based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is classified as vulnerable. In some places of Southeast Asia, this has led to a decline in population. To protect this species, conservation efforts have been continuing.
To ensure the safety of its breeding and roosting grounds, local governments across their range have established protected areas. As a result of these conservation efforts, recent population trends indicate that the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher has partially stabilized. Nevertheless, ongoing monitoring is essential as additional interventions would be needed if numbers decline once more in the future.
Population
The number of oriental dwarf kingfishers worldwide is not known and has not yet been measured. Nonetheless, they are considered scarce in the area, and the increasing degradation of their habitat looks to be having a negative effect on their population trend.
Conclusion
Throughout Southeast Asia, there is a rare species of bird called the Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. These kingfishers construct nests on trees that dangle over bodies of water during the breeding season, when they lay their eggs and raise their young until they are able to fly on their own.
Thankfully, because of their widespread appeal among birdwatchers, it is now simpler to locate areas where Oriental Dwarf Kingfishers are concentrated, aiding conservationists in more precise population tracking. Recognizing their existence not only makes it easier for us to comprehend how global human activity affects wildlife populations, but it also brings us joy to see these birds thriving in the wild.
Rainbow Lorikeets: Aussie Parrots – Habits, Care, Health