Merops ornatus

rainbow bee-eaters

(Rainbow Bee-eater)

FAMILY

Meropidae

Species

Merops ornatus

Common name

Rainbow Bee-eater

Main colour

Light green

Distinctive feature

The extended tail feathers in the male and high pitched voice, body 23-28 cm

Campus

Townsville

Description

This bird is often seen around the area particularly where there are open woodlands. The body is basically light green in colour with a yellow throat and splashes of blue. The beak, eye line and tail are black. In the male the central feathers are extended. Legs and feet are grey, eyes red, bill black.

Additional Images

Entrance to bee-eater nest burrow