The Pied Kingfisher, (Afrikaans name, Bontvisvanger) is a common resident at freshwater wetlands, coastal lagoons and tidal pools.
The male and female can be told apart by the male chest marking indicating that he is wearing a tuxedo (bow tie and belt) and the female chest markings showing her wearing a bra.
They feed on small fish, dragonflies and dragonfly nymphs. They are often seen hovering high in the sky before diving to catch a fish.
The juvenile has buff cloloured edges to the feathers. We have observed them in Intaka at Rietvlei and in the Kruger National Park.
