Giant Kingfisher

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Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Giant Kingfisher is the largest kingfisher in Africa, an imposing bird with a shaggy crest, dark grey and white mottled plumage, and a massive black bill. It is a powerful predator of large fish.

Where to spot

Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa. It prefers clear, flowing rivers, large lakes, and estuaries, particularly those with overhanging vegetation for perching.

How to spot

Look for its large size and shaggy crest. Spot it perched prominently on branches overlooking water or flying with powerful wingbeats. Listen for its loud, far-carrying 'kwa-kwa-kwa' call.

When to spot

Active during daylight hours, often most visible in the early morning and late afternoon when fishing. It is a resident species, observable year-round.

Where to spot

Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa. It prefers clear, flowing rivers, large lakes, and estuaries, particularly those with overhanging vegetation for perching.

How to spot

Look for its large size and shaggy crest. Spot it perched prominently on branches overlooking water or flying with powerful wingbeats. Listen for its loud, far-carrying 'kwa-kwa-kwa' call.

When to spot

Active during daylight hours, often most visible in the early morning and late afternoon when fishing. It is a resident species, observable year-round.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

This kingfisher often hunts by hovering high above the water before plummeting down headfirst to catch large fish, a spectacular display of its hunting prowess.

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