Danube-Networkers
Kingfisher – the flying gem
Text: Gerti Zupanich
Bilder: Antonicek – freigegeben für Berichte über den Nationalpark Donauauen
In Europe his species is endagered and on the “Red list”. He needs natural wetlands for hunting and for his brood sandy-loamy river banks like in “Nationalpark Donauauen”. He was declared as “Bird of the year 2009” to give him more attention about of his beauty und his rarity. > www.donauauen.at <
The birdfamily of alcedo atthis descents from southern Asia and Japain. In Europe his population are in great danger by the toxic chemical water of the industry and returning of wetlands. His plumage is colourful and shining - like a gem - . During his hunting he is sitting still on a branch and when he catch sight of little fish or an insect than he started directly into the water. (This gives him the name “kingfisher”).
