MICRONESIAN KINGFISHER Halcyon cinnamomina cinnamomina Bird Order Coraciiformes Description Adults about 8 in long with a large strong beak. Brownish-red crown, black-green mask extends around the nape, dark blue-green upper-parts, purple-blue wings, and cinnamon wing lining. Upper beak dark brown, lower mainly horn colored; eyes dark brown, legs blackish. Females and young are a brownish-red (paler than the male) with white under parts. Range Once abundant on island of Guam. Now extinct on the island and found only in zoos. Status Extinct in the wild, entire population found in zoos. Lincoln Park Zoo participates in the Micronesian Kingfisher Species Survival Plan. Main threat to this bird is the brown tree snake believed to be carried to the island in military cargo planes during and after WW II. ==>> Conservation Spotlight Photo © Greg Neise

Ecology Habitat Historically occurred island-wide in all habitats except pure savanna and wetland, favoring woodlands and forest areas for feeding and nesting. Niche Carnivorous: like several species of kingfishers, this species does not rely on fish for its diet. Feeds primarily on grasshoppers, lizards, insects, and small crustaceans. An aggressive bird. Micronesian kingfishers appear to identify and defend nesting territories. Life History Both sexes participate in nest excavation which may play an important role in pair bonding. Breeding season Dec.- July; both parents care for nest and chicks. 1 to 3 eggs, incubate 21-23 days. Chicks fed by parental regurgitation in early stages with small food items offered later. Fledging is estimated at 33 days. Special Adaptations Large, strong beak allows bird to drill nest holes in trees and rotting wood.