Pied Kingfisher

Physical characteristics: A medium-sized kingfisher with strongly contrasting black-and-white plumage, a patterned upper body and a black crest. It has a long, black, dagger-like bill adapted for cutting through the water during dives. It measures about 25–29 centimetres and weighs roughly 70–90 grams.

Habitat and distribution: It stays close to rivers, lakes and wetlands and can be seen in aquatic habitats across Kurdistan. Instead of nesting in trees, it excavates a deep tunnel in muddy banks or vertical waterside cliffs.

Hunting and diet: It is known for hovering in one place roughly ten metres above the water before plunging head-first like an arrow when it spots a fish. Its diet is mainly fish, with some aquatic insects and small crustaceans. It can swallow small fish while still flying, allowing it to forage far from the shore.