Kingfishers do live in the United States. In fact, there are three species of kingfisher that can be found in different parts of the country: the belted kingfisher, the green kingfisher, and the ringed kingfisher.
The belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is the most widespread species of kingfisher in North America, including the United States. It can be found across most of the country, from Alaska and Canada down to Mexico. The belted kingfisher is a medium-sized bird, with a distinctive appearance. The male has a blue-gray back and head, a white collar around the neck, and a broad blue-gray band across the chest. The female is similar but has an additional rusty-colored band on the belly. They are known for their loud, rattling call and their habit of perching on branches near water, waiting for prey.
The green kingfisher (Chloroceryle americana) is a smaller species of kingfisher that is found in the southernmost parts of the United States. It can be found in parts of Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and southern Florida. The green kingfisher has a bright green back and head, with a white collar around the neck and a white belly. They are usually found near bodies of water such as rivers, streams, and ponds, where they dive from perches to catch fish and other small aquatic prey.
The ringed kingfisher (Megaceryle torquata) is the largest species of kingfisher found in the Americas. While it is primarily found in Central and South America, it occasionally ventures into the southernmost parts of Texas along the Rio Grande. The ringed kingfisher is larger and more colorful than the other two species, with a dark blue back, a white collar, and a rufous belly. They are known for their loud, cackling call and their habit of diving into the water to catch fish.
Personal Experience:
I have had the opportunity to observe belted kingfishers in various parts of the United States, and their presence always adds a touch of excitement to any bird-watching outing. One particular encounter stands out in my memory – I was hiking along a river in Colorado when I heard the distinctive rattling call of a belted kingfisher. I followed the sound and eventually spotted a male perched on a branch overlooking the water. It was a beautiful sight, with the vibrant blue-gray plumage contrasting against the lush green surroundings. I watched as the kingfisher suddenly dived into the water, emerging moments later with a small fish in its beak. It was a true display of their incredible hunting skills.
Kingfishers do indeed live in the United States. The belted kingfisher, green kingfisher, and ringed kingfisher are the three species that can be found in different parts of the country. While the belted kingfisher is the most widespread, the green kingfisher and ringed kingfisher can also be spotted in specific regions. These birds are not only fascinating to observe but also play an important role in maintaining the balance of aquatic ecosystems by controlling populations of fish and other aquatic prey.