Martin-pêcheur d'Amérique— Quebec wildlife

The belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is a large, conspicuous water kingfisher, native to North America.

Description

The belted kingfisher is a stocky, medium-sized bird that measures from 28–35 cm (11–14 in) in length with a wingspan from 48–58 cm (19–23 in). It can weigh from 113–178 g (4.0–6.3 oz). The adult female is typically slightly larger than the adult male. This species has a large head with a shaggy crest. Its long, heavy bill is black with a grey base. These features are common in many kingfisher species. Both sexes have a slate blue head, large white collar, large blue band on the breast, and white underparts. The back and wings are slate blue with black feather tips with little white dots. The female features a rufous band across the upper belly that extends down the flanks. Juveniles of this species are similar to adults, but both sexes feature the rufous band on the upper belly. Juvenile males have a rufous band that is somewhat mottled, while the band on juvenile females is much thinner than that of an adult female.