On our second day in Bohol, we were able to photograph a pair of Rufous-lored Kingfishers — a highlight of the trip.
A Slow Start, Then a Breakthrough
We started birding early in the morning. Although we could hear their calls, the birds remained hidden for quite some time, and the search felt uncertain.
When we finally located both individuals, it was a moment of real excitement and relief.
A First Look at the Female
This was also the first time I had seen a female Rufous-lored Kingfisher, which made the encounter even more special.
The difference between the sexes is quite clear. The female shows a more cream-toned body, while the male appears whiter in comparison. Seeing both together made the contrast easy to appreciate in the field.
Learning Something New
I had previously seen a male on Mindanao, where it was calling actively. This time, I was pleased to learn that the female also vocalizes, something I had not observed before.
Moments like this — discovering new aspects of a familiar species — add another layer of enjoyment to birding.
The Popularity of Kingfishers
According to our guide, some birders even request three full days focused only on Rufous-lored and Silvery Kingfishers. Hearing this made me realize once again just how popular kingfishers are among birders
Final Thoughts
Seeing and photographing a pair of Rufous-lored Kingfishers, including a calling female, was a rewarding experience. It was a perfect example of how patience, early starts, and persistence can lead to memorable encounters in the field.