We are used to thinking of kingfishers as skilled fish hunters, but the case of the white-throated kingfisher is exceptional. To better understand what makes this colorful and loud bird a success story, we spoke with a zoology researcher
As mentioned, the species is very common at the local level. It is found in all non-desert regions. In recent years has expanded into desert areas. Globally, it is considered an oriental species, meaning a species found in South Asia, from southern China through India and westward to parts of the Middle East, southern Turkey, and the Nile region.
It is a predator, but a highly generalist one, meaning it feeds on a wide variety of food sources. Unlike other kingfishers that specialize in hunting fish or other aquatic animals, the diet of the white-throated kingfisher is extremely diverse. In fact, most of its diet does not consist of fish. Its prey includes insects, mainly beetles, reptiles, mammals, birds, amphibians, crustaceans, and only a small amount of fish. This ability to become an efficient hunter of such varied prey is one of its most fascinating behaviors.
As a generalist predator, the white-throated kingfisher can specialize in prey that exists in large quantities in a specific area. For example, it is often seen standing on a branch with a frog in its beak, trying to break down this relatively large prey. A generalist predator is often considered a keystone species, a species with a significant impact on ecosystems.
Because it is a generalist, it currently appears to be very successful in areas altered by human activity. It is an example of a species that is not harmed by humans but instead expands its range following human activity. Its distribution expanded with the spread of agriculture and gardening. It can be seen within cities and near agricultural fields in desert areas. One can even sit in a cafe and hear its song coming through the window.
Thanks to its generalist nature and its high adaptability to changes in prey and environment, it appears that the climate crisis is not expected to have a clear or significant impact on its survival. However, an outbreak of avian influenza several years ago likely affected it as well, meaning it is not immune, but it is certainly adaptable.
Although the name highlights the white chest, this is a bird with striking feathers in shades of turquoise blue and chestnut brown. The coloration plays a role in courtship, with males displaying slightly brighter blue tones and deeper brown coloring than females.
In addition to their vivid colors, their song is powerful and can be heard from afar. Research has shown that both males and females can produce complex sounds and unique calls, but the males’ courtship song is faster. The faster the song tempo of a particular male, the more successful he is in attracting mates, which results in larger clutches.
Another interesting fact is that the beak of the white-throated kingfisher is not used only for singing and feeding. The birds dig their nest in the ground using their beaks, reaching a depth of about one meter. At the end of the tunnel, they create an inner chamber roughly the size of a soccer ball, all done solely with the beak.
Another finding is that there are significant differences between the local population and other populations worldwide, for example in incubation duration. Follow-up research examined differences between populations in different regions of Asia. The findings suggest significant differences and indicate the presence of micro-evolutionary processes, meaning small genetic changes occurring over relatively short periods, which over time can lead to major evolutionary changes.
Despite their ecological role and wide distribution, white-throated kingfishers have been studied very little. Any research conducted on them is expected to yield new discoveries.
The research began as part of academic teaching. Preparations for the first field surveys led to a search for studies on the species’ ecology, revealing a lack of academic literature. Since the evolution of color and song is a fascinating subject, the decision was made to focus on this species.
The research takes place mainly in the field and later continues in the laboratory, where bird recordings are analyzed and genetic studies are conducted. The fieldwork involved early mornings at nesting sites along water sources and long hours in difficult conditions, followed by complex laboratory analysis. Despite the challenges, the work includes many rewarding moments.