Bhitarkanika is located in North-Eastern part of coastal Orissa. It is the second largest viable mangrove ecosystem in India after Sundabans. It supports an amazing 8 varieties of Kingfishers in its habitat. This feature alone is an indicator of the richness of biodiversity the mangrove ecosystem can sustain. 

BLAK-CAPPED KINGFISHER (Halcyon pileata) Population is approximately 400. Frequented area almost all the creeks and creeklets in Bhitarkanika N.P and Mahanadi delta during September onwards. Peaks during Dec-Jan. The bird is rarely sighted during monsoon. Nesting habit is being closely monitored.

COLLARED KINGFISHER (Todiramphus chloris) Population is app. 200.Globally uncommon but common in Bhitarkanika. These birds can be sighted in Mahisamada creek, Gokhani creek, Khola creek, and Thanapati creek. Frequency of sighting is more during rainy season i.e. July-Aug, which happens to be their nesting season. Nests in tree holes.

BROWN-WING KINGFISHER (Halcyon amauroptera) Population of this large and beautiful birds is around 100. Its habitat is restricted only to core areas of Bhitarkanika. Preferred areas are Bhitarkanika & Dangamal forest blocks, Mahisamada creek, Ganjeikhia creek and Khola. Probably nests in treeholes. Nesting ecology is under study.

STORK-BILLED KINGFISHER (Halcyon capensis)- The population of this large bird in Bhitarkanika is very less. However can be sighted throughout the year in and around Dangmal FRH. Nests in tree holes in Avicennia trees.

PIED KINGFISHER (Ceryle rudis)-This resident Kingfisher is sighted in relatively fresh water areas usually in rivers Patsala, Honshua and Bhitarkanika near Gupti, innermost portions of Mahisamada and Khola creeks. Nests in mudholes in the river banks. Can be sighted throughout the year.

WHITE-THROATED KINGFISHER (Halcyon smyrnensis). 28 cm. Resident. White throat, brown head & white wing patch in flight distinguishes this bird. Very common. It has a wide range of open habitat. Available throughout the state Breeding season: March to July Eggs: 5 to 6.

COMMON KINGFISHER (Alcedo atthis) 17 cm. Resident. Very common. Smallest of kingfishers found in Bhitarkanika. Seen in wide variety of water bodies. Often migrates locally. Available throughout the sate. Nesting season: March to June Eggs: 5 to 7.

RUDY KINGFISHER (Halcyon coromanda). 26 cm. Winter Migrant. Extremely rare. It is the only migrant kingfisher at Bhitarkanika. Migrates during winter. Author has come across this bird in Khola creek on 21st February 2001. Pinkish color. Very shy. Often associated with mangroves, brackish swamp forest & evergreen forests with pools. Breeding season: March & April. Eggs: 5.

For Further details on Kingfisher of Bhitarkanika please contact DFO Rajnagar, Kendrapara