Blue-throated Bee-eater

The Blue-throated Bee-eater (Merops viridis) is a striking, medium-sized bird known for its brilliant mix of chocolate-brown, vivid blue, and bright green plumage. While some are resident year-round, their numbers in Singapore swell massively during the summer months when they arrive to breed in sandy, open areas.

Identifying features

Check out some identifying features of the Blue-throated Bee-eater!

The Blue-throated Bee-eater is easily identified by the deep, rich chocolate-brown plumage on its crown and upper back, which contrasts sharply with the vivid, light-blue patch covering its throat. If you see one perched or in flight, look closely at its backend for the two exceptionally long, thin central tail feathers (known as streamers) that extend gracefully past the rest of its tail.

Habitat and ecology

They are aerial acrobats, hunting from exposed perches. When they spot a flying insect, they dart out, snatch it out of mid-air with a loud snap of their beak, and gracefully glide back to the exact same perch.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How do I tell the difference between the Blue Throated Bee eater and the Blue Tailed bee eater?

To distinguish between the two species, focus primarily on their head and throat. The Blue-throated Bee-eater features a vibrant blue throat and a prominent dark chocolate-brown crown and back. In contrast, the Blue-tailed Bee-eater has a yellowish-green throat that transitions to chestnut, alongside an almost entirely olive-green crown and back. While both species possess a distinct black eye mask, it stands out much more sharply against the lighter face of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater.

Learn more about the Blue-throated Bee-eater!

Curious about the Blue-throated Bee-eater? Here are some interesting articles you can read to learn more about them.

Flora and Fauna Web - Blue-throated Bee-eater

Bird Society of Singapore - Blue-throated Bee-eater

Biodiversity of Singapore - Blue-throated Bee-eater