Martín-pescador Enano
American Pygmy Kingfisher
Chloroceryle aenea
Song
American Pygmy Kingfisher
Appearance: The American Pygmy Kingfisher is a tiny bird, measuring around 13-15 cm (5-6 inches) in length.
- It has a distinctive plumage with bright, iridescent green upperparts and a rufous belly. This species has a short, dagger-like bill and long, sharp wings. The male and female American Pygmy Kingfishers look similar in appearance.
Habitat: The American Pygmy Kingfisher is typically found near slow-moving freshwater rivers, streams, marshes, and ponds in tropical and subtropical forests. They prefer habitats with overhanging vegetation or branches near water bodies, where they hunt for small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects.
Behavior: American Pygmy Kingfishers are solitary birds and are known for their patient hunting behavior. They sit quietly on a perch over water, waiting to spot their prey, which they catch by diving into the water and seizing it with their sharp bill. These birds are elusive and usually shy around humans.
Breeding: During the breeding season, American Pygmy Kingfishers excavate tunnels in riverbanks or steep slopes near water bodies to build their nests. They lay a small clutch of eggs, usually 3-5, which are incubated by both the male and female for about 19-20 days. Once the eggs hatch, both parents cooperate in feeding and caring for the nestlings until they fledge.
Conservation Status: The American Pygmy Kingfisher is considered a species of Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.
MALE
FEMALE
Distribution
Amazon Region: The Amazon region in Colombia, located in the southeastern part of the country, is characterized by dense rainforests and a network of rivers and tributaries. This region provides suitable habitat for this kingfisher due to the abundance of freshwater sources and lush vegetation.
Pacific Coast: The Pacific Coast of Colombia, along the western side of the country, is another significant region where the American Pygmy Kingfisher can be found. Mangrove forests, estuaries, and river deltas along the coast provide ideal hunting grounds for this small kingfisher species.
Orinoco Region: The Orinoco region in eastern Colombia, encompassing areas near the Orinoco River and its tributaries, offers suitable habitats for the American Pygmy Kingfisher. This region's wetlands, floodplains, and forested areas support a diverse array of bird species, including the pygmy kingfisher.
Magdalena River Valley: The Magdalena River Valley, running through the central part of Colombia, is a significant region where the American Pygmy Kingfisher can be spotted. The kingfisher's preference for slow-moving rivers and streams makes this valley an important area for their presence.
Eastern Andes and Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta: The mountain range in northern Colombia are additional regions where the American Pygmy Kingfisher is known to inhabit. These areas offer a mix of forested habitats and freshwater sources that support diverse birdlife, including kingfisher species.
Taxonomy
The American Pygmy Kingfisher (Chloroceryle aenea)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Coraciiformes
- Family: Alcedinidae
- Genus: Chloroceryle
- Species: Chloreceryle aenea
Vocalization
Calls: The primary call of the American Pygmy Kingfisher is a series of sharp and piercing notes that are often repeated in quick succession. These calls are typically short and high-pitched. The kingfisher's calls are used to establish territory boundaries, communicate with other individuals, and signal alarm in response to potential threats.
Vocalization Pattern: The vocalization pattern of the American Pygmy Kingfisher is rapid and can be heard both during the day and at dusk. These calls are often heard near water bodies where the bird hunts for prey.
Territorial Calls: Male American Pygmy Kingfishers may use vocalizations to announce their presence and defend their territory from intruders, including other males or potential predators.
Courtship Calls: During the breeding season, American Pygmy Kingfishers may produce specific vocalizations as part of courtship displays to attract mates. These calls are often more elaborate and varied compared to their regular calls.
Interaction Calls: When American Pygmy Kingfishers interact with each other, they may exchange a range of calls to maintain social bonds within pairs or family groups. These interaction calls help coordinate activities such as hunting or nesting duties.
