Brown-hooded Kingfisher

To capture the Brown-hooded Kingfisher on camera, you should focus on their preferred hunting perches rather than trying to use traditional bird feeders. Look for low-hanging, sturdy branches about 1.5 to 3 meters (5-10 feet) off the ground that offer a clear view of an open patch of grass or soil. In a backyard setting, they are creatures of habit and will often return to the same fence post or garden stake every day. Position your camera at eye level with these perches, roughly 2 to 4 meters away, to capture the intricate details of their plumage and their distinctive red beak.

Because these birds are 'perch-and-pounce' hunters, they spend long periods sitting perfectly still followed by bursts of extreme speed. To get the best shots, use a camera with a fast trigger speed and set it to a 'burst' mode or high-definition video. If your camera has adjustable settings, a fast shutter speed (1/1000s or faster) is necessary to freeze the action when they dive. Since they are most active in the golden hours of the morning and late afternoon, ensure your camera is positioned to take advantage of the light without pointing directly into the sun, which can wash out the brilliant turquoise of their wings.

You can attract these kingfishers by creating a 'biodiversity corner' in your yard. Avoid using pesticides to ensure there are plenty of grasshoppers and lizards for them to hunt. While they don't eat seeds, they are drawn to water for bathing and drinking. A birdbath placed near a favorite perch is an excellent spot for a camera. Ensure the water is clean and the camera is angled slightly upward to catch the dramatic splash as they dip into the water. In the winter months, when insects are less active, they may be more frequent visitors to water sources, making this the best time for clear, unobstructed captures.