Malagasy kingfisher facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Malagasy kingfisher |
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| C. v. vintsioides, Parc de Tsarasotra | |
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| Genus: |
Corythornis
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| Species: |
vintsioides
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The Malagasy kingfisher or Madagascar kingfisher (Corythornis vintsioides) is a colorful bird found on the island of Madagascar and nearby islands like Mayotte and the Comoros. It belongs to the Alcedinidae family, which is the family of kingfishers. This bird loves to live in special forests called mangrove forests, which are found near the coast in warm, tropical areas.
Scientists Joseph Eydoux and Paul Gervais first officially described the Malagasy kingfisher in 1836. They gave it the scientific name Alcedo vintsioides at that time. This kingfisher is a close relative of the malachite kingfisher, a bird that lives across much of mainland Africa. The Malagasy kingfisher is one of only two types of kingfishers you can find in Madagascar. The other one is the even smaller Madagascar pygmy kingfisher.
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What the Malagasy Kingfisher Looks Like
The Malagasy kingfisher is about 13 centimeters (about 5 inches) long. It weighs between 16.5 and 22 grams, which is about as much as a few paperclips!
This bird has bright, dark blue feathers on its back and wings. Its belly and chest are a warm, reddish-brown color. On its head, it has a cool crest that is blue and green with stripes. Its beak is black. Both male and female Malagasy kingfishers look very similar.
Different Types of Malagasy Kingfishers
There are two main types, or subspecies, of the Malagasy kingfisher:
- C. v. johannae: This type lives on the Comoro Islands. Its blue feathers are a bit lighter and greener than the other type.
- C. v. vintsioides: This is the main type found in Madagascar.
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See also
- Madagascar pygmy kingfisher
- List of birds of Madagascar
