To me, this little kingfisher is one of the most beautiful creatures upon the earth. The Malachite Kingfisher,<I> Alcedo cristata </I>is at 13-14 cm ,the second smallest of our 10 SA kingfishers. Kingfishers belong to the <I> Alcedindae </I>Family with 93 species worldwide. Africa is home to 19 species. These are small to medium sized hole-nesting birds, with heavy, often brightly coloured bills. They are either aquatic or frequent forested and wooded habitats, feeding on fish, insects, and small land vertebrates. This picture was taken at Marievale, near Srings in the East Rand of Gauteng.
This exquisite little birdie has been on my best loved for years, and will stay there. - The ultimate is still to nail him with a prey item in the bill, but beggars cannot be choosers, so I shot what was available. I trust you will enjoy Mr Exquisite with me.