Halcyon malimbica
Blue-breasted Kingfisher
A fairly large (about 25 cm) tree kingfisher with a blue breast, blue back, and a heavy red-and-black bill. In The Gambia it favours wooded areas near water, especially riverine and mangrove habitat along tributaries of the River Gambia, where it often perches in shade.
Identification
Told from the smaller, more orange-billed Woodland Kingfisher by its larger size and all-red-and-black bill; distinguished from Grey-headed Kingfisher by the blue (not grey) breast and chestnut belly.
Want to see the Blue-breasted Kingfisher?
Join Yaya on a trip to one of the sites below, or ask about an itinerary built around it — he'll help you plan the best way to find it in the field.
Tours that target this bird
A carefully paced 15-day tour from the Atlantic coast through the mangrove-lined River Gambia and into the eastern part of the country, balancing serious birding with rest, wildlife and Gambian culture. Around 300 species are possible depending on season.
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A fully guided private birding tour combining the best of coastal and inland Gambia with the forests, wetlands and wildlife-rich landscapes of Eastern Senegal, including Niokolo-Koba National Park. Designed for serious birders seeking Gambian specialities, Sahelian species, woodland birds and waterbirds, at a comfortable and enjoyable pace.
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A comprehensive birding, wildlife and nature tour combining the finest habitats of The Gambia with Northern Senegal's Saloum Delta — coastal wetlands, mangroves, woodland, rice fields, savannah and riverine forest, plus a boat excursion to the Scissor-tailed Kite colony at Kousmar.
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