Belted Kingfisher

The Belted Kingfisher is a stocky, medium-sized waterbird known for its large head, shaggy crest, and heavy, pointed black bill. It flies with rapid, shallow wingbeats and emits a characteristic loud, metallic rattle. Females feature a distinctive rust-colored belt across the chest, adding a splash of color to their mostly blue-grey and white plumage.

Striking dark slate-grey to bluish-black upper section sharply contrasting with a clean white base and rachis, typical of the plumage markings of this species

Pennaceous upper portion with tightly interlocked barbs and barbules, transitioning to a semiplumulaceous, slightly fluffy base with a weak afterfeather

Slender, white rachis that is slightly flattened at the base and curves gently, with dense barbs set at a moderate angle

Smooth, slightly glossy pennaceous tip with a soft, downy base, water-resistant texture common in semi-aquatic birds

Body contour or upper wing covert, determined by its moderate size, rounded shape, and distinct dark-to-white color blocking

Distinctive sharp color division between dark slate-blue/grey and brilliant white, combined with a compact, rounded contour feather shape

Found near lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and marine coasts where clear water allows for spotting small fish

Breeds across most of North America including Alaska and Canada, wintering in the southern US, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean

Acts as an important apex predator for small aquatic life, helping regulate small fish and invertebrate populations in freshwater ecosystems

Other small to medium North American birds with grey and white plumage, though the sharp demarcation and glossy blue-grey tone are quite distinctive for this kingfisher

Unlike many songbirds, female Belted Kingfishers are more brightly colored than males, displaying an extra chestnut-colored belly band. They excavate long nesting burrows into vertical dirt banks near water.

In various Native American traditions, the kingfisher symbolizes patience, speed, and prosperity. Feathers were historically valued for ornamentation, though the species is primarily appreciated today by birdwatchers and nature photographers.

Look near water bodies, perching on overhanging branches. Molted contour feathers can occasionally be found on the ground below favorite perches or near nesting banks.

Fair condition with some minor fraying and wear along the edges of the vane, likely from natural wear or molting

NW Arkansas