Alcedinidae
Alcedinidae is a family of small to medium-sized birds in the order Coraciiformes, commonly known as kingfishers. The family comprises roughly 90 to 100 species distributed across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, typically near rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. It is usually divided into three subfamilies: Alcedininae (river kingfishers), Halcyoninae (tree kingfishers), and Cerylinae (water kingfishers). Some classifications place tree kingfishers in a separate family (Halcyonidae), but many authorities treat Halcyoninae within Alcedinidae.
Morphology and behavior: Members are compact with bright plumage and a stout bill for catching fish. They
Habitat and reproduction: They inhabit watery environments from rivers and lakes to coastal areas. Nests are
Distribution and conservation: Alcedinidae species are widespread, with many in tropical regions. Some are common and
Evolution and systematics: The group shows considerable ecological and morphological diversity, with adaptations for aquatic foraging.