Ringed Kingfisher

The largest kingfisher of the Americas, this striking, ragged-crested bird is found along rivers, lakes, and coastal lagoons from the southern United States through much of South America, where it perches on overhanging branches or wires before plunge-diving for fish. Its loud, rattling call is often the first clue to its presence, and its shaggy chestnut-and-blue-grey plumage makes it easy to identify once spotted. It is active throughout the day and can be seen year-round in suitable wetland habitat, with nesting burrows dug into earthen riverbanks during the breeding season.