The African Pygmy Kingfisher: Treasure of Uganda’s Birdlife.
The African Pygmy Kingfisher “Ispidina picta”, is small in size but an absolutely striking bird nonetheless. Brightly colored and rich with an always likable attitude, it is the king of birds for any serious bird enthusiast. This little kingfisher ranks as one of the most treasured prizes in the richly varied population of Uganda birds, therefore making the wet thick environs of the country very fascinating. The beauty and ways thus make the bird dear to the enthusiast of the wet thick environs of this country.
Appearance of the African Pygmy Kingfisher.
The African Pygmy Kingfisher is only 12 to 13 centimeters long but does not go unnoticed. Its plumage is bright: blues, orange, and white. The back is azure blue, its underbelly and throat a bright warm orange. The black eye-stripe with the sharp orange bill brings out the most colorfully vivid figure in one of Uganda’s kingfishers.
Where to Find the African Pygmy Kingfisher in Uganda.
The African Pygmy Kingfisher “Ispidina picta” has been distributed across Uganda. However, it has broadly remained an aquatic bird that favors diverse environments but, of course, essentially aquatic ones. Commonly found in various forests, wetlands, savannas, and thick vegetation near rivers, streams, and lakes, it is also well represented in popular birding hotspots such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This kingfisher is found in Uganda in a habitat with thick undergrowth, through which flights between perches while hunting are easily done. Such places also offer ample opportunity for nesting.
Diet and Hunting Techniques of Ispidina picta.
Small fish, insects, and other invertebrates make up the major proportion of diet for this Ispidina picta. Mainly, it does its hunting from a perch, with an abrupt dive into the water at surprising speed. Unlike some larger kingfisher species, often, it hunts at the water’s edge, pouncing on fish that swim near the surface or catching flying insects. After catching its prey, it will return to a perch to consume it. This kingfisher is an effective and precise hunter because of its sharp eyesight and swift reflexes. Due to its very small size and quick maneuverability, it can easily move through dense vegetation unnoticed while often just waiting for the right moment to strike.
Breeding, Reproduction and Nesting Behaviours.
Basically, the African Pygmy Kingfisher is a burrow-nesting bird during its breeding season. The bird digs its nest into the banks of rivers or streams at times right at the edge of the water. Digging of the nest is done by both males and females; nests are often several feet in length. The entrance of the burrow is usually protected from predators by dense vegetation or overhanging plants.
When this nest is prepared, the female lays a clutch of 3-4 eggs. These are incubated by the female mostly, though the male sometimes delivers food to her. The eggs hatch after about 19-21 days. Both parents undertake alternate feeding and guarding of the chicks. The youngsters spend about 3-4 weeks in the nest before they fledge, leave the nest, and start self-feeding.
Lifespan of the African Pygmy Kingfisher.
The general estimated lifespan of the African Pygmy Kingfisher in the wild is from 3 to 5 years. However, being small bird species, they are in constant fights and environmental adversities, which can lower their living existence. Yet, their activity and bright colors make them very successful around their preferred habitats.
Conservation Status and Challenges.
Currently, the International Union for Conservation of Nature has marked the Pygmy Kingfisher as a species of “Least Concern.” However, this species may also remain vulnerable to habitat loss attributed to deforestation and wetland drainage. Wetland, forest, and riparian zone conservation work is very crucial in the sustenance of the habitats of this bird.
Why Go to Uganda for Bird Watching.
Uganda is a birdwatcher’s heaven, and the African Pygmy Kingfisher is one of the many treasuries that make it so. With over 1,000 species recorded and many rare and endemic birds, the rich biodiversity of Uganda creates unforgettable birding. Landscapes ranging from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest set a perfect backdrop for a glimpse of this colorful kingfisher.
For avid birders, the birding hotspots of Uganda provide great opportunities to sight the African Pygmy Kingfisher in its natural environment, where it is quite colorful and energetic up close.
How to See the African Pygmy Kingfisher in Uganda?
Below are some of the Birding Safaris/tours offered by Arcadia Safaris that you can book to see the African Pygmy Kingfisher in its natural habitant in Uganda.
3 Day Mabamba Shoebill and Botanical Gardens Safari
10 Day Birding Uganda and Game Drives
21 Days Birding Uganda and Gorilla Trekking Safari
18 Days Birding Tour with Gorilla Trekking
Remarks on the African Pygmy Kingfisher in Uganda.
The African Pygmy Kingfisher is a real gem of Ugandan wildlife, due to its bright plumage, swift hunting techniques, and entertaining behavior. The handsome bird comes as an addition to the diverse ecosystems that make Uganda incomparable for any other destination, being one of the best birding destinations in the world, where every trip is filled with memorable wildlife encounters.
