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Belted Kingfisher

Belted Kingfisher line art illustration (click image to enlarge)

Belted Kingfisher full color illustration (click image to enlarge)

Artist's notes:

The Belted Kingfisher was completed in 2008 as part of an (as yet) unpublished field guide to the Reno/Lake Tahoe area. As they are one of my favorite birds I had been meaning to draw one for some time. I remember watching these interesting birds on the banks of the Minnehaha Creek where I grew up in Minneapolis. I loved watching them perch on a branch, appearing to not even be looking at the water, then drop into it instantly, returning with a small fish. The drawing is based on a photo by P. Bruno.

Information about the Belted Kingfisher:

The Belted Kingfisher is a large, conspicuous and noisy water bird. It is the only kingfisher found in the northern United States and Canada. The birds have large heads and shaggy crests. They require sandy vertical banks for nest burrows and clear water so they can see their prey. Kingfishers take food from the water, feeding predominantly on small fish. They will also prey on crayfish, frogs, tadpoles, and other aquatic dwellers. Belted Kingfishers are about 11-14 inches tall with a wingspan of 19-23 inches.