Red-backed kingfisher

The red-backed kingfisher (also known as the tree kingfisher) is a gorgeous blue-green and white bird named for its flame-coloured rump. It grows to about 21 cm.

These birds are ground feeders that live mainly on insects and small reptiles. They kill their prey by beating it against a perch or the ground.

You might be surprised to see a kingfisher in this arid environment, but the red-rumped kingfisher loves mulga and dry forests. Look for it on the Mala walk to Kaṉtju Gorge or at Kata Tjuṯa.