- Halcyon pileata
Identification
From White-throated Kingfisher by black head and rufous belly and flanks separated by white throat and collar. Bill bright red, wings and upper coverts deeper blue. In flight shows conspicuous white patch at base of primaries. Size-30cm.
Distribution
Breeds in Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, China and Korea. Winters throughout southeast Asia to Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi and the Philippines.
Taxonomy
Monotypic.
Habitat
Mangroves, ricefields, forest edges, forested river courses.
Behaviour
Territorial in its wintering quarters; it is aggressive and often displaces the resident White-throated Kingfisher. Not as vocal as White-throated Kingfisher. Shy.
