King Fisher, Gaggio, Italy

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The common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) is one of Europe's most striking small birds, and Italy's rivers, canals, ponds and wetlands are among its favoured haunts. Barely larger than a sparrow, it is instantly recognisable by its brilliant electric-blue back, orange underparts, white throat patch and long, dagger-like bill. The vivid blue comes from the way light scatters within the structure of its feathers rather than from pigment, so the bird can seem to flash from turquoise to deep cobalt as it moves. In the Italian countryside around small towns such as Gaggio, kingfishers are usually seen perched quietly on a low branch, reed or post over slow-moving or still water, watching intently for small fish. When prey appears, the bird plunges headfirst into the water, then returns to its perch to beat the catch against the wood before swallowing it whole. More often, though, the first sign of one is a high, piercing whistle and a streak of blue darting low and fast along the water's surface. Kingfishers nest in tunnels they excavate in soft, vertical earth banks along waterways, and they are sensitive to pollution and to harsh winters, making them a good indicator of healthy freshwater habitats. In Italy the species is present year-round, with resident birds joined by migrants from northern Europe in the colder months, and patient observers along quiet ditches and riverbanks are often rewarded with a glimpse of this jewel-like hunter.