Bee eater family. They are seen The family Meropidae (bee-eaters), most species being colonial, often will exhibit interspecific and intraspecific communication. Rainbow bee-eater inhabits open woodlands, scrublands, mangroves, sandy pastures, farmlands and orchards. The genus name Merops is Ancient Greek for "bee-eater", and apiaster is Latin, also meaning "bee-eater", from apis, "bee". As evident from the name, the Asian green-bee eater is an insectivore. My wife Rita Carratello considers bee-eaters to be her favorite bird family (see photo of her license plate, below). The genus name Merops is Ancient Greek for “bee-eater”, and persicus is Latin for “Persian”. What originally motivated the authors to study white-fronted bee-eaters in Kenya?, 3. It is generally strongly migratory, wintering in tropical Africa, although some populations The European bee-eater is a brightly-coloured bird that typically breeds in southern and central Europe, northern and central Africa, and western Asia. Except for the resident southern African population, the species is strongly migratory, wintering in tropical Africa. Jul 28, 2012 · Black-headed Bee-eater - Merops breweri 2011-03-24 White-fronted Bee-eater - Merops bullockoides Red-throated Bee-eater - Merops bulocki 2011-02-09 2018-12-03 Arabian Green Bee-eater - Merops cyanophrys The chestnut-headed bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti), or bay-headed bee-eater, is a bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. The name Meropidae, is derived from the ancient Greek word (Merops) for “bee-eater. [6] A fossil from the early Cretaceous (~100 mya), Melittosphex burmensis, was initially considered "an extinct lineage of pollen-collecting Apoidea sister to the modern bees", [11] but subsequent research has rejected the claim that Melittosphex is a bee The Asian green bee-eater (Merops orientalis) belongs to the family of bee-eaters, Meropidae. Apart from the resident population in southern Africa, most European bee-eaters are highly migratory, spending the winter in tropical Africa. Show More It breeds in Northern Africa, and the Middle East from eastern Turkey to Kazakhstan and India. These birds are known for their vibrant plumage, slender builds, and typically elongated central tail feathers, along with long bills that curve downwards and medium to long wings. Found throughout tropical and subtropical Eurasia, Africa, and Australasia (one species, Merops apiaster, occasionally reaches the British Isles), bee-eaters range in length from 15 to 35 cm. Bee-eaters have long, curved bills and pointed wings. The genus name Merops is Ancient Greek for "bee-eater", and persicus is Latin for "Persian". Sep 23, 2021 · The green bee-eater (Merops orientalis) is a small, passerine bird species of the bee-eater family Meropidae. They are characterized by richly colored plumage, slender bodies, and usually elongated central tail feathers. They are mainly insect eaters and they are found in grassland, thin scrub and The blue-tailed bee-eater (Merops philippinus ) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. They often live and raise their families together in groups, especially near rivers where they dig tunnels in sandy banks for their nests. Bee-eaters of both sexes alternate between being breeders and helpers in their clan. [2][3] Its closest relative is most likely the olive bee-eater (Merops superciliosus) of southern and eastern Africa, [3] but molecular phylogenetic analysis places the rainbow bee-eater as closest relative with the European bee-eater (M. As well as the European species there is Merops hirundinaeus which is the Swallow Tailed. They are found in open or lightly-wooded areas, usually near swamps, rivers, lakes, or flooded fields in tropical and semi-tropical regions of Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific. It is known for its small size, unique sound, slender body, and bright plumage as well as for being one of the most beautiful birds. It is found in a variety of wooded areas throughout sub-Saharan Africa, western […] Green Bee-eater Merops orientalis The Green Bee-eater is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family. These bee-eater species are distributed in Indian subcontinent, southern China, mainland southeast Asian countries and Iran. Let’s dive deeper into the world of Bee Aug 14, 2012 · The wonderful family Meropidae contains 27 dazzling species, of which Africa is endowed with no less than 20 species, the balance occurring across Asia and with one as far afield as Australia. Most European bee-eaters are migratory, meaning they fly long distances to warmer places for winter, usually to tropical Africa. Related to hoopoes, kingfishers, and rollers, they are exquisitely nimble aerial predators. Due to the diversity, it is hard to find general features of this bird order, but the most frequent are listed below. They have richly coloured plumage and slender bodies. is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family. They are very social and quite vocal. Colony health may decline and require intervention to recover from losses. All bee-eaters are Coraciiformes, avians noted for May 28, 2025 · Bee-eaters Bee-eaters are from the family Meropidae and there are about 26 different species of birds in the family. The bee-eaters, belonging to the family Meropidae, are comprised of three genera and thirty species, most of which inhabit Africa and Asia, with some found in Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. Feb 24, 2019 · The European bee-eater (Merops apiaster Linnaeus, 1758) belongs to the order of the Coraciformes and to the family of the Meropidae and is one of the most colourful birds of the European continent besides being the only present species of this family. Most species are found in Africa and Asia, with a f Nyctyornis is a genus of the bee-eaters, near passerine birds in the family Meropidae. You'll usually spot Meropidae or bee-eaters, is a family of near-passerines. There are 8 subspecies of green bee-eater that can be found in Africa and Asia. However, in areas where bees are already declining due to factors like disease, pesticides, habitat loss, and climate change, any additional pressures, including predation, can further stress their populations, though predation is not considered a primary cause of bee declines. The members of this family are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies and usually elongated central tail feathers. These birds are distributed across the globe, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Europe. European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster) Faan Meintjies reserve, North West Photo by Tony Archer Bee-eaters have their own family Meropidae in the order CORACIIFORMES, where they are placed alongside rollers, kingfishers, motmots and todies - the actual taxonomic sequence of which varies depending on the listing that’s being used. This has also earned him his nickname “Hunter of Africa”. It is resident but prone to seasonal movements and is found widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal and The Gambia to Ethiopia, the Nile valley, western Arabia and Asia through India to Vietnam. As the name suggests, bee-eaters eat May 29, 2025 · Predators keep bee populations in check, especially the invasive ones. The list of species of Meropidae family<br><p>The <b>bee-eaters</b> are a group of non-passerine birds in the family <b>Meropidae</b>, containing three genera and twenty-seven species. As their name suggests, these brightly-colored birds predominantly eat flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which they catch on the wing from an open perch. Like most colonial species, European bee-eaters are very vocal while within the colony. Bee-eater, any of about 25 species of brightly coloured birds of the family Meropidea (order Coraciiformes). Family: Meropidae Genus: Merops Species: M. What are the two ways that an individual can contribute genetically to the next generation?, 2. (Wrege & Emlen 1994) Females typically leave their birth group to join the family of the male Order Coraciiformes is a diverse and colorful bird order. ” The bee-eaters are a group of birds in the family Meropidae, containing three genera and thirty-one species. A small number of species inhabit southern Europe, Australia, and New Oct 6, 2025 · European bee-eaters belong to the genus Merops along with 27 other species, which share the same colorful plumage and penchant for snatching bees and wasps out of the air. Rainbow bee-eaters are the only species of bee-eaters that inhabits Australia. You can find them in Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. Green bee-eater inhabits arid woodlands, thicket, plantations, lakesides and open grasslands. Along with their closest cousins, they form part of the wider bee-eater family referred to as Meropidae, which contains three genera, Merops, Meropogon, and Nyctyornis. It has a greenish top with light brownish yellow . It is resident but prone to seasonal movements and is found widely distributed across Asia from coastal southern Iran east through the Indian subcontinent to Vietnam. The family Meropidae has 27 species, of which the European Bee-Eater is the most common, often seen in groups of 20 to 100 birds. It is strongly migratory, wintering in tropical Africa. Bee-eaters have large, pointed wings and a Bee-eaters (Meropidae) Class AvesOrder CoraciiformesSuborder AlcedinesFamily MeropidaeThumbnail description Small to medium-sized, active, colorful, sociable birds with long, slender, decurved bills and a characteristic upright, alert posture when perchedSize 6–10. It is the size of a thrush. It is predominantly green; its face has a narrow blue patch with a black eye stripe, and a yellow and brown throat; the tail is blue and the beak is The Asian green bee-eater, also known as little green bee-eater, and green bee-eater in Sri Lanka. Ideal read for bird sanctuary enthusiasts! Green bee-eater (little green bee-eater) is small bird that belongs to the bee-eater family. Sometimes, they Everything about the Bee-eater. Found throughout tropical and subtropical Eurasia, Africa, and Australasia (one species, Merops apiaster, occasionally reaches the British Isles), bee-eaters range in length from 15 to 35 cm (6 to 14 inches). The Bee-eater bird family, known scientifically as Meropidae, is renowned for its vibrant plumage and acrobatic flight patterns. They have one of the most complex of all avian societies, featuring families, clans Blue-tailed Bee eater, Dhaka, Bangladesh The blue-tailed bee-eater (Merops philippinus) is a bee-eater species mostly seen in open habitats close to water. Bee-eaters / Meropidae is a family of birds from Coraciiformes order Nov 11, 2022 · Green bee-eaters prefer to inhabit open areas with bushes or trees for perching. Like other bee-eaters, the species feeds on flying insects, mainly Hymenoptera (bees, wasps, and ants). bullockoides White-fronted Bee-eater Physical Description White-fronted Bee-eater is a vibrantly colored, slim bird, growing around 9 inches or 23 centimeters, and weighing about 35 grams. It is strongly migratory. [2] Learn Bee-eater facts for kidsThe bee-eaters are a group of colorful birds. There are just two members of this group, which occur in tropical south and southeastern Asia. Feb 25, 2025 · Bee-eaters, a group of 31 species from the family Meropidae, are brightly colored birds found mostly in Africa and Asia, feeding on flying insects like bees and wasps. It is a resident breeder in the Indian subcontinent and adjoining regions, ranging from India east to Southeast Asia. Most species are found in Africa and Asia, with a few in southern Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. Found predominantly in Africa, Asia, and Southern Europe, these birds are characterized by their slender bodies, long pointed wings, and distinctive curved bills. The oldest non-compression bee fossil is Cretotrigona prisca, a corbiculate bee of Late Cretaceous age (~70 mya) found in New Jersey amber. Geographic Range All members of the Meropidae family (Bee-eaters) are considered “Old World” birds, inhabiting the Eastern hemisphere. The bee-eaters are a group of birds in the family Meropidae, containing three genera and thirty-one species. [2] It breeds in southern Europe and in parts of north Africa and western Asia. [1] This species, like other bee-eaters, is a richly coloured, slender bird. These are mainly wasps, bees, hornets, as well as dragonflies in the Camargue. The White-Fronted Bee-eaters, Merops bullockoides, are a species of bee-eater widely distributed in sub-equatorial Africa. Their excellent eyesight and ability to spot bees from 60 metres away further enhance their agile hunting prowess. It is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia where many populations are strongly migratory, and seen seasonally in many parts but breeding colonially in small areas across their range, mostly in river valleys, where they nest by Dive into the colorful world of the Blue-tailed Bee-eater, a bird lover's dream. The European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) is a bird species in the bee-eater family, Meropidae. Aug 1, 2016 · The Art of Bee-ing M ost of the 22 species of bee-eater birds Merops spp. Each bird lives in an extended family with members of four overlapping generations. It breeds on the Indian The Little Green Bee-eaters (Merops orientalis) are also commonly referred to as Little Green Beeaters, which can lead to confusion with another member of the bee-eater family – the Little Bee-eater, Merops pusillus. Their shape makes them look a bit like swallows. Rainbow bee-eater is a tree-dwelling bird that belongs to the bee-eater family. Most of the population breeds and inhabits mainland Australia but other populations of rainbow bee-eaters have been recorded in eastern Indonesia, New Guinea and a few in the European Bee-eaters display remarkable agility, performing acrobatic aerial displays to catch insects mid-flight. It is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia where many populations are strongly migratory, and seen Oct 17, 2025 · Voice recognition studies by Lessells (1990's) of European Bee-eaters helped confirm the observations for White fronted Bee-eaters by Emlen and his colleagues. They appear to recognize parents, siblings, offspring, friends, and nesting neighbors, likely from voice recognition. The ornithologists consider the rollers as the leading family of this order, and the other families are in some way related to them. White-fronted Bee-Eater (Merops bullockoides) Family: Meropidae (bee-eaters) Sunset cruise on the Zambezi Zambia February 16, 2016 Canon 7Dmark2 The Fascinating Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Merops oreobates) Welcome to the colorful world of the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater (Merops oreobates), a captivating member of the bee-eater family! With its striking colors and lively demeanor, this bird not only enchants bird-watchers but also plays a significant role in maintaining ecological balance. Flies gracefully as it The European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family, Meropidae. The Asian Green Bee-eater breeds in burrows, typically dug by the birds themselves in sandy ground, for example along rivers, and lays a clutch of 4–8 white eggs. They live in the Old World and Australasia: Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. There are Basic facts about White-fronted bee-eater: lifespan, distribution and habitat map, lifestyle and social behavior, mating habits, diet and nutrition, population size and status. It breeds in southern and central Europe, northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. Jul 29, 2024 · The European Bee-eater consumes a wide array of flying insects including small and large bees and wasps, ant and termite alates, flies, dragonflies, butterflies, moths, bugs, cicadas, water scorpions, mantids, beetles, grasshoppers and locusts. It nests in small colonies, digging holes in cliffs or earthen banks, and can usually be seen in low trees, waiting to hunt passing insects by making quick hawking flights or The bee-eaters are a group of land birds in the family Meropidae. Mainly green with a bluish throat, slender black eye mask and throat band, rufous or slightly rusty crown and back of the neck, and central tail streamers. While they eat any type of flying insect, honey bees Home Animals Birds Bee-Eater: Characteristics, Diet, Facts & More [Fact Sheet] Welcome to an exploration into the world of bee-eaters, the colorful and acrobatic birds that decorate the skies across various continents. The blue-tailed bee-eater is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. Bee-eaters feed on bees, honey bees, flies, and other insects. They have specialized Most bee-eater species are found in Africa and Asia, but some occur in southern Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. The Bee-eaters are a group of non-passerine birds in the Family Meropidae, containing three genera and thirty species. It breeds on the Indian subcontinent and adjoining regions, ranging from India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka across Southeast Asia to Indonesia. While bees make up the largest part of their diet, they also take flies, beetles, and other insects. Members of the Meropidae family, there are about 22 bee-eater species in this group, of which six are present in India. They have long downturned bills and pointed wings, which give them a swallow -like appearance. Most species are found in Africa and Asia, with a f Mar 22, 2022 · The bee-eaters are so named because they prefer to eat bees, wasps, and bumblebees. [caption May 27, 2024 · The green bee-eater, or little green bee-eater, is one of the smallest birds in the bee-eater family. They are mostly found in Africa, Asia, and Southern Europe; they are not common in the United States. [4] It was The bee-eaters are a group of birds in the family Meropidae, containing three genera and thirty-one species. Belonging to the bee-eater family, these slender birds are found in parts of Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, offering a dazzling sight with their shimmering appearance under sunlight. All have long downturned bills and pointed wings, which give them a swallow-like The blue-tailed bee-eater (Merops philippinus) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. It prefers areas near the lakes and rivers. With their striking plumage, acrobatic flight patterns, and intriguing behaviors, these creatures are not just a visual delight but also play a crucial role in their ecosystems. Species that breed in temperate habitats migrate to the tropics for the winter. It is often seen perched on branches. Learn about its features, habitat, and the threats it faces. 5 in (15–27 cm)Number of genera, species 3 genera; 24 species (22 species recognized by some taxonomists) Source for The Asian green bee-eater (Merops orientalis), also known as the little green bee-eater, and just green bee-eater in Sri Lanka, is a bird species in the bee-eater family. With unmistakable bright green plumage and a characteristic bluish-green throat, this bee-eater species has a wide distribution across Asia. It is resident but prone to seasonal movements and is found widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal and the Gambia to Ethiopia, the Nile valley, western Arabia and Asia through India to Vietnam. Their diet consists mostly of bees, wasps, and dragonflies. These birds live and breed in many parts of the world, including southern and central Europe, northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. Males and females are General Information The blue-cheeked bee-eater (Merops persicus) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family, Meropidae. They are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies, and usually elongated central tail feathers The rainbow bee-eater is the only species of bee-eater found in Australia and is monotypic, meaning it has no accepted subspecies. apiaster). Bee-eaters occur in open habitats and savannas of the south-temperate and tropical zones, ranging through Africa , southern Europe , southern Asia , Southeast Asia, and many Pacific Islands. It is the only bee-eater in its range with a red-white throat. Renowned for their adept hunting skills,… Read More »Asian Green Bee The European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. What does a typical bee-eater extended family unit consist of? and more. It performs some seasonal movements and is found widely distributed across Asia. Also shows the typical shape of a bee-eater — long and slightly downcurved bill with long tail-streamers. Most authorities, including IOC (see footnote), now formally recognise 27 separate species of bee-eater under three genera - Nyctyornis and Meropogon for just Jun 14, 2023 · T he European bee-eater of Meropidae Family is a skilful hunter, catching insects in flight. They predominantly eat insects, especially bees, wasps and hornets, which are caught in the air. A bright and colorful bee-eater; the red throat and white line under the black face mask render it unmistakable. Specific habitats that green bee-eaters can be found in include habitats like arid woodlands and dry riverbeds. Characteristics What does the bee-eater look like? Bee-eaters are the most colorful birds found in Europe. The bee-eater family Meropidae belongs to the Coraciiformes order, as do the kingfishers of family Alcedinidae, the motmots of family Momotidae, the rollers of families Brachypteraciidae and Coraciidae, and the todies of family Todidae. The Bee-eaters (Family Meropidae) are also brightly-coloured birds, but which unlike the territorial kingfishers are quite sociable and often nest in colonies. Identification is by its rainbow plumage. The chestnut-headed bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti), or bay-headed bee-eater, is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. Other birds are the Blue, Red and purple bearded bee eaters. This is because they belong to a group Apr 28, 2025 · Bee-eaters belong to the family Meropidae, which includes three different genera and 27 distinct species. The white-fronted bee-eater (Merops bullockoides) is a species of bee-eater widely distributed in sub-equatorial Africa. However The blue-tailed bee-eater (Merops philippinus) is a beautiful bird from the bee-eater family. Meropidae - bee-eaters There are about 26 species of brightly-colored birds in this family. They range throughout Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe, sticking to the temperate regions of those continents. Juveniles are duller than adults and lack the long tail feathers. Foraging and colony growth can get disrupted due to loss of foraging bees. In this article, we Feb 26, 2024 · With its vibrant green plumage and captivating behaviors, the Asian Green Bee-Eater stands out as a remarkable member of the avian kingdom. These birds live in many parts of the world. All have long downturned bills and pointed wings, which give them a swallow-like appearance when seen from afar. The bee-eaters are a group of near-passerine birds in the suborder Meropi and family Meropidae. Bee-eaters are medium-sized, brightly colored birds. The bee-eater (Meropidae) is a family of non-passerine birds, encompassing three genera and at least 27 species. They have long, slightly curved bills which are used to pluck bees (honey-bees for preference) or other insects from the air, the venomous sting is torn off before being eaten. Blue-throated bee-eaters are small with colorful plumage consisting of a red nape, dark green wings, light green breast, and their signature blue throat Merops nubicoides (Southern carmine bee-eater, Carmine bee-eater) The Southern carmine bee-eater is found from Tanzania south to Botswana, Zimbabwe and surrounds, where it occurs mainly in savanna. Sep 30, 2025 · The bee-eater (Meropidae) is a family of non-passerine birds, encompassing three genera and at least 27 species. Most species are found in Africa and Asia but others occur in southern Europe, Australia, and New Guinea. Their strong beaks aid them in grabbing insects, especially bees, mid-air. Predation pressure is highest near nesting sites causing greater losses to nearby apiaries. are found in the tropical regions of Africa and Asia, with a single species inhabiting Europe and another in Australia. The bee eater is a bird forming the Meropidae family. It is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia where many populations are strongly migratory, and seen seasonally in many parts but breeding colonially in small areas across their range, mostly in river valleys, where the nest by tunneling into loamy sand banks. The species has a distinctive white forehead, a square tail, and a bright red patch on its throat. It is the only species of Meropidae found in Australia. They are seen The Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti), also known as the Bay-headed Bee-eater, is a richly colored, slender bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. Mar 8, 2024 · Bee-Eaters are a group of colorful birds belonging to the family Meropidae, known for their vibrant plumage and specialized diet of flying insects, including bees, wasps, and dragonflies. Profile, identification, behaviour and distribution and tips for photographing this species. It can be found in Australia, eastern Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands. Their diet primarily consists of European honey bees, which can make up to 80% of their food. The name Meropidae is derived from the ancient Greek word (Merops) for “bee-eater. Blue-throated bee-eaters are small with colorful plumage consisting of a red nape, dark green wings, light green breast, and their signature blue throat The European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) is a beautiful, colorful bird that belongs to the bee-eater family. Merops is a large genus of bee-eaters, a group of birds in the family Meropidae, native to Africa, Asia, Australia and Europe. This species occurs as a spring Jul 8, 2022 · Gregarious, colourful and known for their rapid response to flying insects, bee-eaters are birds that are hard to miss. It breeds in southeastern Asia. These social birds nest in colonies, typically in sandy banks. Bee-eaters (Meropidae): A Colorful Diplomacy of Nature Bee-eaters (Meropidae) belong to a family of vibrant birds that captivate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. This species, like other bee-eaters, is a richly-coloured, slender bird. Blue-tailed Bee-eater Merops philippinus The Blue-tailed Bee-eater is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family. In flight, note the rusty underwing with a black trailing edge. As the The bee-eaters are a group of birds in the family Meropidae, containing three genera and thirty-one species. Most species are found in Africa and Asia, with a f May 17, 2018 · Bee-eaters Bee-eaters are 24 species of birds that make up the family Meropidae. The blue-throated bee-eater (Merops viridis ) is a species of bird in the bee-eater family. Size range27 - 29 cm Threatened Species0 Family Distribution About Family Distribution This map shows the combined distribution of all species in the Meropidae family. ” The Blue-throated bee-eater (Merops viridis) is a species of bird in the bee-eater family. It feeds exclusively on insects generally larger than that of other bea-eaters, such as termite alates, cicadas and locusts. A real rainbow, vivacious colours, typical of the tropical world, to which belong practically all the 31 species assigned to this genus and in As their name suggests, bee-eaters predominantly eat flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which are caught on the wing from an open perch. bee-eater, any of about 25 species of brightly coloured birds of the family Meropidea (order Coraciiformes). (Fry 2001) Breeding success in this species strongly influenced by family structure. Colour intensity indicates the number of species present in each region: Darker colours = More species The bee-eater family of birds is distinguished by its vivid colours, elegant flying patterns, and distinctive eating preferences. Beekeepers often use deterrents like reflective tapes, noise makers to The Asian green bee-eater (Merops orientalis) is a brightly-colored bird in the bee-eater family. They have bright feathers and slim bodies. Populations in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula that were formerly assigned to this species (under the name green bee-eater) are now considered distinct species: the African green bee-eater and the Arabian green bee A small, dainty bee-eater of open woodlands, farmland, and sparse human habitation. There are 26 different species of bee-eaters. The green bee-eater creates tunnels in sandy banks for its nests, so it needs a sandy environment to breed. Pairs and groups inhabit woodland adjacent to watercourses, hillsides, and scrub, especially near earthen banks, where nesting colonies are formed by up to 450 individuals burrowing into the dirt. [2] Populations in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula that Meropidae - bee-eaters There are about 26 species of brightly-colored birds in this family. They are characterised by richly coloured plumage, slender bodies, and usually elongated central tail feathers. Its colors with metallic reflections are composed of the turquoise blue-green of the belly, the chest and the bottom of the wings Jun 25, 2025 · A bee-eater family can consume thousands of honey bees daily impacting colonies. The green bee-eater (Merops orientalis), also known as little green bee-eater, is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family. Many bee-eaters, including both Carmine species, are social birds breeding in colonies on river banks and foraging out over open country. Juvenile has duller lower throat and lacks tail-streamers. You can find it across South and Southeast Asia. Three genera and thirty-one species make up the family Meropidae, which includes the bee-eaters. Introduction to the European Bee-Eater The European Bee-Eater, known as Merops apiaster, is a bird with bright colours and interesting behaviours. [1] This species occurs as a spring overshoot north of its usual range, with occasional Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like 1. They are found throughout southeast Asia in subtropical or tropical mangrove forests. This species, like other bee-eaters, is a richly coloured, slender bird. Their habitat commonly consists of open country, often near gullies. Known for their eye-catching plumage and swift, agile flight, these fascinating birds are a subject of interest for ornithologists and birdwatchers alike. They belong to the bird family called Meropidae. Jul 12, 2023 · The Rainbow Bee-eaters is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family Meropidae. Many of these birds travel long distances, like going on a big trip, depending on the season. The blue-cheeked bee-eater (Merops persicus ) is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family, Meropidae. cqknu67mo9yx2akfms6djgbammpq0wbuqoaukycwf