Kingfisher

KINGFISHER
Sixth in the "Birds of Israel" Series

The kingfisher has a long, red beak and its bright turquoise back and wings stand out during flight. It measures about 30cm in length, has a 40cm wingspan and weighs about 100 grams. Wet areas are its habitat and it is often found around fishing ponds and marshes. The sounds of the Kingfisher are among the strongest of the birds in Israel.

The kingfisher perches on high branches, electricity wires and roofs. From its high observation points, it swoops down onto its prey and feeds on amphibians, rodents, fish, crustaceans, birds and insects.

Both male and female build the nest, which takes about five days. The female lays 4 to 6 eggs and both birds take turns in incubating.

Design: Igal Gabay

Description:

Obverse: A brightly colored Kingfisher perched on a branch over water, with a fish in its beak.

Common Reverse of the Series: The Land of Israel at the center of the world as seen from a satellite map. Around the border, the angles and directions of a compass, symbolizing the "inner compass" of birds that directs them to the Land of Israel.