Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting) – A Detailed Study

The Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting) is a small yet strikingly beautiful bird belonging to the Alcedinidae family. It is known for its vibrant blue plumage and sharp fishing skills, making it one of the most fascinating avian species found in forested water bodies, including the Sundarban ecosystem. Below is a comprehensive analysis of this bird, covering its taxonomy, morphology, habitat, behavior, and its presence in the Sundarbans.

1. Taxonomy & Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Coraciiformes
• Family: Alcedinidae
• Genus: Alcedo
• Species: Alcedo meninting
• Common Name: Blue-eared Kingfisher

This bird is closely related to the Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), but it can be distinguished by its deeper blue coloration and habitat preference.

2. Morphology & Identification

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is a small-sized bird with remarkable color patterns and distinctive physical features:

A. Size & Weight

• Length: Approximately 16–18 cm
• Weight: Ranges between 20–25 grams

B. Plumage & Coloration

• The upperparts exhibit a bright deep blue shade with an iridescent effect.
• The crown and nape have a speckled blue pattern, which sets it apart from the Common Kingfisher.
• The ear coverts (sides of the head) appear dark blue, giving it the name Blue-eared Kingfisher.
• The underparts are vivid orange to rufous.
• The beak is long, sharp, and completely black in males, while females may have an orange base on the lower mandible.
• The legs and feet are reddish-orange.

3. Habitat & Distribution

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is primarily found in tropical and subtropical forests, especially near freshwater streams, rivers, and mangrove ecosystems.

A. Geographic Range

• Distributed across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
• Found in the foothills of the Himalayas and coastal mangrove forests.

B. Preferred Habitat

• Dense forests near freshwater bodies (streams, rivers, and swamps).
• Lowland evergreen forests and mangrove ecosystems.
• Sundarbans Mangrove Forest, where it thrives in tidal creeks and estuaries.

4. Behavior & Ecology

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is a secretive and fast-flying bird with specialized hunting techniques.

A. Diet & Hunting Strategy

• Primarily piscivorous (fish-eating).
• Also consumes aquatic insects, crustaceans, and small amphibians.
• Hunts by perching silently on a low branch near water and diving swiftly to catch prey with its sharp beak.

B. Breeding & Nesting

• Breeding Season: Varies based on location, but in India, it typically breeds between March and June.
• Nest: Excavates a burrow in riverbanks or earthen embankments, usually 50–100 cm deep.
• Eggs: Lays 4–6 white eggs, which are incubated by both parents.

C. Vocalization

• Produces a sharp, high-pitched “tseet” call, often heard near streams and mangroves.

5. Presence in the Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, provides a perfect habitat for the Blue-eared Kingfisher. It is an elusive but resident species found in the creeks, tidal channels, and dense mangrove canopy.

A. Why is the Sundarbans an Ideal Habitat?

• Abundant fish population in estuaries and tidal creeks.
• Dense mangrove coverage provides safe nesting and roosting sites.
• Minimal human disturbance in remote areas supports breeding success.

B. Sightings & Conservation Status in Sundarbans

• The Blue-eared Kingfisher is not commonly seen due to its secretive nature.
• Birdwatchers and researchers have recorded its presence in various parts of the Sundarbans, especially in less-disturbed areas.
• Classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN Red List, but its population is declining due to habitat destruction.

C. Threats in the Sundarbans

• Loss of forest cover due to deforestation and climate change.
• Rising salinity levels affecting freshwater availability.
• Disturbance from human activities like fishing and tourism in sensitive areas.

6. Conservation & Protection Measures

Although the Blue-eared Kingfisher is not considered endangered, conservation efforts are necessary to protect its habitat in the Sundarbans and other regions.

A. Conservation Strategies

• Mangrove conservation projects to protect nesting sites.
• Sustainable fishing regulations to maintain food availability.
• Limiting human disturbance in breeding areas.
• Scientific research and monitoring to track population trends.

B. Role of Sundarbans in Conservation

The Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and plays a crucial role in conserving mangrove-dependent species like the Blue-eared Kingfisher.

7. Conclusion

The Blue-eared Kingfisher (Alcedo meninting) is a magnificent yet elusive bird, thriving in dense tropical forests and mangroves. The Sundarbans serves as a vital habitat for this species, offering rich biodiversity and undisturbed nesting grounds. However, conservation efforts are essential to preserve its habitat from threats like deforestation, climate change, and human activities.

For bird enthusiasts and wildlife conservationists, spotting this brilliant blue kingfisher in the serene waters of the Sundarbans is truly a mesmerizing experience.