Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
UK Green ListModerate📍 Derwent
Season
Year-round. Rivers and streams.
Best time of day
Morning. That flash of blue.
Lake District
The Derwent. Rothay. Clear rivers. That flash of blue. They perch. They dive. Elusive. Patience pays.
UK population
Around 5,000 pairs. Vulnerable to cold winters.
Overview
Kingfishers are a flash of blue. The Derwent. Rothay. Clear water. They perch. They dive. Elusive. You might get lucky. That blue. Unmistakeable.
At a Glance
| Order | Coraciiformes |
| Family | Alcedinidae |
| Habitat | Rivers · Streams · Clear water |
| Diet | Fish. Dives from perch. |
| UK population | Around 5,000 pairs. Vulnerable to cold winters. |
| Lake District | The Derwent. Rothay. Clear rivers. That flash of blue. They perch. They dive. Elusive. Patience pays. |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Rivers. The Derwent, Rothay, Brathay. Clear water. Perches. That flash. Elusive.
Identification
Blue and orange. That flash. Small. Perches. Dives. Unmistakeable.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Clear rivers. Perches. That flash. Elusive. Patience. The Derwent. Rothay.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species is on the UK Green List, indicating a healthy population status in the UK context. It remains an important component of Lake District biodiversity.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.