This individual the tip of its upper mandible broken off. Nevertheless, it seemed to be hunting successfully around the grounds of our lodge. This species is similar to the Forest Kingfisher, but lacks the bright white lores of that species. Collared (Mangrove) Kingfisher (T. chloris) is similar, but has a larger bill and Australian populations lack buffy coloration. Sacred Kingfisher is a widespread migrant and this bird was probably a recent arrival returning from wintering grounds in New Guinea or Indonesia. Older references place this bird in the genus Halcyon. Some authors lump this species with the Flat-billed Kingfisher (T. recurvirostris) of Somoa. The migratory population in Australia is assigned to the widespread nominate race.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LZ5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA | hand-held (no adapter)