About Todiramphus macleayii (Jardine & Selby, 1830)
The forest kingfisher, scientifically named Todiramphus macleayii, measures 21.5–25.5 cm (8.5–10.0 in) in length. Males weigh 32–43 g (1.1–1.5 oz), while females weigh 29–44 g (1.0–1.6 oz). This species has blue wings, head, and tail, with a white breast, abdomen, and nape. It has a white patch in front of the eyes, and a black band that extends from the bill, through the eyes, to the ear coverts. A white patch on its wings becomes visible when the bird is in flight. Females can be distinguished by their blue nape instead of a white nape. The forest kingfisher has a dark brown iris, and dark grey legs and feet. Immature birds are duller in coloration, and have a blackish crown. Its call is a shrill t-reek that is repeated regularly, and is given most often in the early morning. This kingfisher is native to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Australia. In Australia, it lives on or near the Australian coastline, from Port Stephens in New South Wales northwards to Cape York, and westwards across the Top End. It is a summer visitor to the southern parts of its range in New South Wales and southern Queensland, and is resident year-round in all other parts of its range. As its common name suggests, it inhabits subtropical or tropical dry forest, subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, and Melaleuca swampland.
