Habitat:
savannas, riparian forests, open woodlands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The White-fronted Bee-eater, Merops bullockoides, is a colorful and fascinating bird, recognizable by its vibrant plumage and social behavior. It features a green head with a distinctive white forehead, a red throat, and a yellow belly. Its wings are bright green, while its tail is bluish with elongated central feathers. This bee-eater is often seen in groups, nesting in colonies along sandy riverbanks. It primarily feeds on flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which it catches in flight with agile aerial maneuvers. The White-fronted Bee-eater is a diurnal bird, active mainly during the day, and is known for its melodious calls and graceful flight.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the White-fronted Bee-eater, focus on times of the day when the light is soft, such as early morning or late afternoon. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details of its colorful plumage. Be patient and discreet, as although tolerant, this bird can be wary of sudden movements. Look for colonies along rivers where they nest, and wait for them to fly out to hunt insects. Take advantage of their social behavior to capture interactions between individuals.