Natural History Wanderings

from The Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology

This bird has eluded scientists for the last 130 years.

The South Philippine Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx mindanensis) was first described 130 years ago during the Steere Expedition to the Philippines in 1890.  The bird is the tiniest species of forest kingfisher in the Philippines, and is characterized by its striking plumage of metallic lilac, orange, and bright blue spots.

See photos and read more at  Ultra-Rare Dwarf Kingfisher Fledgling