The beautiful iridescent plumage of the kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) makes it one of our most colourful and instantly recognisable birds; despite this it is rarely seen due to its shy nature. The upperparts are bright blue, while the underparts are a rich chestnut-red, although if seen in flight these colours may not be very obvious. The bill is very long and dagger-like. Although the sexes are generally similar, in breeding pairs they can be distinguished by the bill; in females it has a red base, whereas in males it is completely black. Although similar to adults, kingfisher juveniles have duller, greener plumage.

FOUND HIM SITTING ALMOST HIDDEN AMONG SOME RIVER SIDE BUSHES. ALMOST MISSED HIM BECAUSE OF HIS EXTREMELY SMALL SIZE AND SINCE I WAS SEARCHING FOR SOMETHING ELSE.

JUST HAD A MOMENT TO TAKE A SNAP.