Page 19 - Interface February 2026
P. 19
PIED KINGFISHER
afr: Bontvisvanger
Photographed by Ivan Muller
IG: ivans.bird.pics
The Pied kingfisher’s large, powerful beak and striking monochromatic
plumage usually steals the show but a closer look reveals its surprisingly
dainty feet. These small, syndactyl feet (where two toes are partially
fused) are not built for walking or swimming but are designed perfectly
for perching on thin reeds or branches between hunts.
As a specialist fish-hunter, the Pied Kingfisher is the only member of
its family capable of hovering for long periods over deep water before
diving vertically to strike. Once it secures its prey – usually a small fish
like the one seen here – it returns to a favourite perch. To ensure the
meal is safe to swallow, it will beat the fish against a hard surface to kill
it and relax the spines before swallowing it whole, head-first.
INTERFACEDigimag | FEBRUARY 2026 | 17
