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Order:   Coraciiformes

Family:   Alcedinidae

Species:   Megaceryle torquata

IOC English name:  Ringed Kingfisher


Unmistakable bird, be it for its singing or for its unique look. It measures about 42 centimeters and its plumage is predominantly metallic blue in color, with a white collar at the height of the neck. The male has a rust-colored chest and belly, while the female has a blue bar and a white bar at chest height, with the rest of the belly also rust-colored. It also has a very striking tuft. As his name indicates, he is an excellent fisherman, using his strong beak to catch fish on the water's surface. It can be seen, occasionally, resting on top of the buildings of the Praia Vermelha Campus or being heard while flying over the Campus.