Amazon Kingfisher

The Amazon Kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona) is widely distributed across the Neotropics, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America and into nearly every South American country east of the Andes, including Ecuador. In Ecuador, it is a resident species of lowland rivers, lakes, and wetlands, favoring open waterways rather than dense forest. It can be found in both the Amazon Basin and coastal lowlands, typically below 1,200 meters, though occasionally recorded at higher elevations. Its presence along Ecuador’s rivers makes it one of the more conspicuous kingfishers in the region, often perched quietly before plunging headfirst into the water for fish.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Amazon Kingfisher is its remarkable fishing technique: it perches silently over water, then dives at speeds up to 25 miles per hour to spear fish with precision. After catching prey, it often beats the fish against a branch before swallowing it headfirst, ensuring spines don’t obstruct digestion. Another intriguing fact is that it nests in burrows dug into riverbanks, tunnels that can extend over a meter long, offering protection from predators but leaving nests vulnerable to flooding. Its loud, harsh calls—sometimes described as frog-like—carry over long distances, serving as territorial signals. Interestingly, although named after the Amazon, this kingfisher’s range extends far beyond the basin, even reaching as far north as Mexico and occasionally appearing as a vagrant in Texas.

Globally, the Amazon Kingfisher is assessed as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, thanks to its extremely large range and estimated population of at least half a million mature individuals. While its numbers are believed to be slowly declining, no immediate threats have been identified. However, like many riparian birds, it remains vulnerable to habitat degradation from deforestation, dam construction, and pollution of freshwater systems. Conservation of riverine habitats is vital not only for this kingfisher but also for the diverse aquatic life it depends on.