Hello, everyone! The birds we encounter in the forests each have their own enchanting features, but one particularly striking bird is the “Ruddy Kingfisher.” At first glance, it might seem like just another vibrant bird, but there are many fascinating stories to tell about it.
The Ruddy Kingfisher is about 27 cm long, roughly the size of a Brown-eared Bulbul. True to its name, its upper body is a reddish-brown, and it has beautifully orange-brown feathers on its underside. What’s particularly impressive is the blue on its rump that becomes visible when it flies! Its red beak and feet further enhance its vividness.
In Japan, it’s known as a summer visitor and has a wide breeding range, from Hokkaido to Okinawa, but it is especially commonly seen on Iriomote Island. In winter, it migrates to the warmer regions of Southeast Asia. Unlike the Kingfisher that lives near water, the Ruddy Kingfisher typically resides in the forest. It is carnivorous, feeding on frogs, crabs, and aquatic insects. Its hunting method is similar to that of the Kingfisher, perching on stones or branches, watching its prey intently, and then capturing it with precision.
During the breeding season, you can hear its vivid call, “Kyororororo.” It uses the ground or old woodpecker nests for nesting, showing great ingenuity.
Because of its characteristic of only singing on rainy days, it is also called the “Rain Caller Bird,” and its mystical presence continues to captivate many people.
Next time you visit the forest, why not look for this fiery bird, the Ruddy Kingfisher? Surely, new excitement awaits you. Until next time!
