Intro
The Blue-tailed Bee-eater (Merops philippinus) is a stunning avian spectacle, a visual feast of colors blending from a verdant green to a striking blue. As the name suggests, these birds are adept at catching bees mid-air, making them a natural insect controller. These agile and slender birds are a bird lover’s dream come true, displaying a myriad of hues that appear to have been painted by the gods themselves. For those of you who frequently visit bird sanctuaries or browse through bird image names, this species is not to be missed.
Table: Key Information About the Blue-tailed Bee-eater
| Serial Number | Characteristics | Description |
| 1 | Common name | Blue-tailed Bee-eater |
| 2 | Scientific name | Merops philippinus |
| 3 | Color | Predominantly green, blue tail |
| 4 | Average length | 23-26 cm |
| 5 | Height | Approximately 25 cm |
| 6 | Type of bird | Migratory |
| 7 | Found in India in | Godavari, Kaveri, Tunga Badra rivers |
| 8 | Habitat | River valleys, near water bodies |
| 9 | IUCN Status | Not Evaluated |
Features of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater
Length
The Blue-tailed Bee-eater has a relatively moderate size when it comes to its length, ranging from 23-26 cm. This length includes the extended tail feathers that add a splash of blue, captivating any bird lover or anyone scrolling through bird photos. The length is perfect for providing the bird with the agility it needs to hunt flying insects like bees, highlighting its role in the ecosystem. Its size allows it to make quick turns and swift flights, which is especially important during bird migration periods.
Height
When measured vertically from its feet to the tip of its extended tail feathers, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater can be around 25 cm in height. For those who collect bird png or are looking for a bird picture, the posture of this bird offers a spectacular view of its vivid colors and sleek form. Its height is another testament to its agility and quick reflexes, qualities that are vital for its survival, especially when evading predators or navigating through bird sanctuaries.
Running Speed
Although not particularly known for its running speed, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater is far more agile in the air. Nevertheless, if you are a bird lover visiting a bird sanctuary, you might catch a glimpse of this bird swiftly maneuvering on land as it searches for food or avoids danger. For those interested in the bird shop near me for ornamental items, having a miniature version of this agile bird could be a great idea.
Color
The Blue-tailed Bee-eater is a chromatic marvel. Its predominant color is green, but what steals the show is its vivid blue tail. Add to that a dash of yellow and brown around the throat, and you have a bird that’s straight out of a fantasy book. Perfect for bird photos or even bird png collections, its colors make it one of the most photographed birds in bird sanctuaries.
Habitat and Food of the Bird
- Near Water Bodies: Blue-tailed Bee-eaters are often found in proximity to rivers and other water bodies.
- Insectivorous Diet: Their diet mainly consists of flying insects, especially bees, wasps, and hornets.
- Foraging in Flight: They also forage in flight over estuaries and backwaters.
- Cornfields and Grasslands: These birds prefer cornfields and grassy plains as their habitat.
- River Valleys: In India, they’re commonly found in the river valleys of Godavari, Kaveri, and Tunga Badra.
Nesting and Nurturing
Nesting is an elaborate affair for the Blue-tailed Bee-eater. The birds excavate tunnels in sandy banks, often near bird sanctuaries and water bodies. Males are responsible for incubating eggs and caring for young birds, making nesting season a captivating sight for bird enthusiasts and photographers.
Threats
While not critically endangered, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater faces threats from habitat loss and pesticide use, which affect the birdlife sanctuary ecosystems they inhabit. Furthermore, bird shops should refrain from keeping these birds as pets due to their specific needs and contribution to natural pest control.
IUCN Status and Conservation
Currently, the IUCN status of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater is ‘Not Evaluated.’ However, local conservation efforts, especially in bird sanctuaries, aim to protect this species and its natural habitat.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a dedicated bird lover, an occasional visitor to bird sanctuaries, or simply someone who loves scrolling through bird images or bird png collections, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater is a bird that promises to captivate your imagination and respect for the natural world.
More info about Blue-tailed Bee-eater – Link
