This image was taken in Nairobi, at our hotel. The groundsmen were cleaning all the ornamental pools which gave the Giant Kingfisher and this Malachite Kingfisher a fantastic location for feeding. They seemed particularly partial to the small Koi Carp (something the groundsmen tried to stop!).
These birds are strictly aquatic but avoid areas where there is a closed canopy over the water, so, for example, they are not found around slow moving streams which meander through dense woodland or forest. When disturbed they fly fast and very low over water in a direct line to their next perch. I was glad this one stayed static for a few minutes.
Steve
Canon MKIII, 500mm plus 1.4x 1/800 AV f6.3 ISO 4oo
Posted by Paul Gibbs on October 15, 2007 at 6:16 AM
Nice plumage, apart from the bill it looks fairly similar to out own, in colour that is.
Discussion
8 repliesThese birds are strictly aquatic but avoid areas where there is a closed canopy over the water, so, for example, they are not found around slow moving streams which meander through dense woodland or forest. When disturbed they fly fast and very low over water in a direct line to their next perch. I was glad this one stayed static for a few minutes.
Steve
Canon MKIII, 500mm plus 1.4x 1/800 AV f6.3 ISO 4oo
Extremely interesting, and nicely detailed shot of this chap
Alan
Thanks
Steve
Steve