Ruddy Kingfisher

The ruddy kingfisher is a medium-sized tree kingfisher about 25cm long, widely distributed in east and south-east Asia, with a very large, bright red bill and equally red legs. The body is rust red, generally deepening to purple at the tail. The sexes differ little, though some sources report males as somewhat brighter (Wikipedia, general species account).

It prefers heavily forested areas, so its high, descending call is more often heard than the bird is seen, and birds generally travel singly or in pairs. It is migratory, with northern birds going as far south as Borneo in winter. It feeds on fish, crustaceans and large insects, and on frogs where running water is scarce. The account opened does not name Bhutan.