That the Belted Kingfisher is a common waterside resident throughout North America, often seen hovering before it plunges headfirst into water to catch a fish. It frequently announces its presence by its loud rattling cry. It is a medium-sized bird with a large head and shaggy crest, large, thick bill, bluish head and back, white throat and collar, white underneath with blue breast band.
I have seldom seen one sitting quietly like this, and generally only know one is around when I hear its raucous cry and then see it flying by or diving into the water.
From allaboutbirds.com
E.J. Lefavour
www.khanstudiointernational.com
Good Morning Gloucester 
Pretty bird / pretty picture.
LikeLike
Great shot. My friend Steve Brettell carves Kingfishers, among some other birds. They are truly amazing little hunters.
http://www.stevebrettell.com/decor14.htm
Best,
Nate
LikeLike
Thanks Kathleen – they are a very unique looking bird.
Thanks Nate – I checked out your friend Steve’s bird carvings, and they are great. I love the Kingfisher, Kestrel (another amazing little hunter), Red Tailed Hawk and Turkeys, but they are all very good, and he gives them such personality. I love the shots of them posed in natural settings.
LikeLike
There’s a kingfisher that used to hang out in Lobster Cove, near the footbridge, is this he?
People who like birds may want to know about the Cape Ann Winter Birding Weekend, Feb 4-6. Guided bus tours to great birding spots, vendors of optics, etc., great lectures and a boat trip to see the pelagic birds. Did you know?– there are more birds around Cape Ann in the winter than there are in the summer. http://www.capeannchamber.com/birdingweekend/
LikeLike
I think they are on our beaches here in Brevard County, FL but then we have lots of beach birds!!
LikeLike