Introduction: What are kingfishers?

Kingfishers are a family of birds that are known for their unique hunting technique of diving into water to catch fish. They are found in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and Australia. With their bright plumage and sharp beaks, kingfishers are a popular sight amongst birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

The smallest kingfisher species

The smallest kingfisher species is the African pygmy kingfisher (Ispidina picta), which belongs to the family Alcedinidae. These birds are native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting areas such as savannas and forests. Despite their small size, African pygmy kingfishers are fierce predators, feeding on insects, small reptiles, and of course, fish.