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BUFF-BREASTED PARADISE-KINGFISHER
Photo: Courtesy of Damon Ramsey
BSc.(Zool) Biologist Guide
BUFF-BREASTED PARADISE-KINGFISHER: Tanysiptera sylvia 34 cm
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The Buff-breasted Paradise-Kingfisher breeds only
in rainforests of north Queensland.
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It is a summer migrant, arriving in November and
departing in March or April. It
winters in southern New Guinea.
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Buff-breasted
Paradise Kingfishers nest in ground-level termite mounds, creating a tunnel
often less than half a metre from the ground. Following this invasion, the
termites seal off the chamber. Given the noise made by the chicks and the smell
from dropped food, it is astonishing that broods are successful in the
vulnerable positions. Many other kingfisher species choose termite mounds higher
up, in trees. Tunnels are made by the adults flying head on at the mound,
occasionally dying from impact. (Source: Department of Environment)
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Adults are spectacular
birds, with a thick red bill
and two long white central tail feathers. These feathers contrast with the
brilliant blue and black upperparts; underparts are yellowish.
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Food includes insects,
lizards and frogs.
Additional Information:
Courtesy of
Damon Ramsey
The
'Buff-breasted Paradise Kingfisher' Tanysiptera sylvia (left) is one of
our most magnificent birds, recognized by the very long streaming white tail.
They arrive in the Daintree from New Guinea every year to dig nests in the small
termite mounds on the floor of the rainforest, and raise chicks inside. They are
regularly heard and seen at this time at Mossman Gorge and at Jindalba
boardwalk, and of course at Kingfisher Lodge.
Script: Courtesy of Damon Ramsey BSc.(Zool) Biologist Guide
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