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Brown-winged Kingfisher: A Near-Threatened Jewel of the Waterways

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of the Brown-winged Kingfisher, a bird that captures the imagination of bird lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. As a type of tree kingfisher, this species has garnered attention for its awe-inspiring features and near-threatened status. Whether you are a seasoned bird watcher looking to add another majestic creature to your bird image name list or a casual visitor to a bird sanctuary, there’s no doubt that the Brown-winged Kingfisher will leave a lasting impression on you.

The bird, scientifically known as Pelargopsis amauroptera, is well-distributed across the tropical regions of the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Imagine walking through a serene birdlife sanctuary, and your eyes catch the gleam of its green back and blue wings set against the olive-brown head—indeed, a sight to capture in bird photos. This bird’s near-threatened status makes it even more captivating, sparking significant concern and conversation around its conservation.

If you cannot spot this elusive creature in your nearest bird sanctuary, worry not; this comprehensive guide aims to be your virtual bird shop, offering a wealth of information about this beautiful kingfisher. We will delve into its physical characteristics, like its length and running speed, feeding habits, nesting details, and the critical aspects of its conservation. Stay tuned as we embark on an enriching journey to explore why this bird is more than just another flying across the azure sky.

Table of the Bird’s Characteristics

Serial NumberCharacteristicsDescription
1Common nameBrown-winged Kingfisher
2Scientific namePelargopsis amauroptera
3ColourGreen back, blue wings, olive-brown head, buff underparts
4Average length35 cm (14 in)
5Average heightVertical: Approx 35 cm
6Type of birdTree Kingfisher
7Found in India in statesWest Bengal and Coastal Regions
8HabitatWooded habitats near lakes, rivers, or coasts
9IUCN StatusNear Threatened

Features of the Bird

Length

The Brown-winged Kingfisher is an enormous bird with an average length of 35 cm. Unlike smaller birdlife you might find in a bird sanctuary, this kingfisher has a commanding presence, especially when perched near water bodies.

Height

Measured vertically, the bird’s height is also around 35 cm. It stands tall among its peers in the bird sanctuary and serves as an excellent subject for bird image names and photos.

Running Speed

Although primarily known for its flying abilities, the Brown-winged Kingfisher can move swiftly on the ground when needed. However, bird migration is not generally a behaviour observed in this species.

Color

The Brown-winged Kingfisher has an olive-brown head, green back, and blue wings. It makes for a colourful display in any birdlife sanctuary and is a treat for any bird lover taking bird photos.

Habitat and Food of the Bird

  1. Habitat: Prefers well-wooded areas near lakes, rivers, and coasts.
  1. Diet: Eats fish, frogs, crabs, and young birds.
  1. Feeding Time: Usually active during the day, particularly in the morning and late afternoon.
  1. Breeding Ground: Often nests in decaying trees or termite nests near water bodies.
  1. Locality: Mainly found in West Bengal and other coastal regions of India.

Nesting and Nurturing

When it comes to bird nesting, the Brown-winged Kingfisher is unique. The birdhouse, so to speak, is often a decaying tree or termite nest near water bodies. Usually, a clutch of two to five round white eggs is laid. The male takes part in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.

Threats

Despite its beauty, the Brown-winged Kingfisher faces several threats, particularly habitat loss and pollution. Additionally, they can often be found in bird shops near me, indicating illegal pet trade.

IUCN Status and Conservation

According to IUCN, this stunning bird is categorized as ‘Near Threatened’. Conservation efforts are crucial, especially regarding habitat preservation and monitoring bird shops to curb illegal trade.

Conclusion

In a world rapidly losing its biodiversity, the Brown-winged Kingfisher is a compelling reminder of the rich birdlife we stand to lose if urgent conservation actions aren’t taken. Whether you’ve admired this bird through a high-resolution bird picture, observed it in a bird sanctuary, or even had the opportunity to photograph it, contributing to your collection of bird photos, you’re bound to understand why this species captures the hearts of so many bird lovers.

Though it faces considerable threats, primarily from habitat loss and the pet trade in various bird shops, the good news is that with concentrated efforts from all stakeholders, we can pull this magnificent bird back from the brink. And this isn’t just a task for scientists and policymakers; you too can play a part. Whether it’s advocating for these creatures online, keeping an eye out for them in bird shops near me, or supporting organizations dedicated to bird conservation, every little action counts.

To the casual observer, the Brown-winged Kingfisher might appear as just another bird flying in the sky, but as we’ve discovered, it is so much more. With its vivid colours, remarkable size, and the enchanting world it inhabits, this kingfisher is indeed a jewel of the animal kingdom. As we continue our lives in an increasingly disconnected world, let’s remember the irreplaceable value and beauty that birds like the Brown-winged Kingfisher add to our lives. Thank you for taking this informative journey with us. We hope you are as captivated by this stunning bird as we are.

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