Frequently sighted on Enoggera Creek

The Azure Kingfisher Ceyx azurea is small with a slender black bill and short tail, pale orange-white underbelly and two white stripes on either side of its neck. Head, back and wings is an intense blue with a violet sheen. Throat is pale orange-white, grading to orange-reddish on belly and undertail. Found throughout northern and eastern Australia in freshwater creeks and rivers as well as billabongs and swamps. Feeds on fish, crustaceans, aquatic insects and occasionally frogs. Plunges from overhanging perches into water to catch prey. The Azure Kingfisher has frequently been sighted at Walton Bridge Reserve perching on partially submerged branches. If disturbed it will take off and fly at great speed along Enoggera Creek. In 2023 bird photographer Damien Mckenzie spent some weeks in the attempt before taking these photos of the kingfisher with a small fish and feeding the fish to its chick.

Azure Kingfisher feeding its chick, on the left. Photo: Damien Mckenzie

Azure Kingfisher with catch at Enoggera Creek Walton Bridge Reserve. Photo: Damien Mckenzie

Photo: Derek Boddington