Habitat:
Savannas, open forests, wooded areas

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

Identification and description:
The Blue-breasted Bee-eater, or Merops variegatus, is a colorful and fascinating bird belonging to the Meropidae family. It boasts a vibrant plumage with shades of green, blue, and brown, and a bright blue breast that gives it a distinctive appearance. This bee-eater is often observed in savannas, open forests, and wooded areas of sub-Saharan Africa. It primarily feeds on flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which it catches in flight with remarkable agility. The Blue-breasted Bee-eater is a sociable bird, often seen in small groups, and is known for its spectacular courtship displays. Although its conservation status is currently stable, deforestation and habitat loss could pose future threats.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Blue-breasted Bee-eater, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details of its colorful plumage without disturbing it. Favor early morning or late afternoon hours when the light is soft and enhances the bird's vibrant colors. Be patient and discreet, maintaining a distance of at least 10 m to avoid scaring it. Observing its feeding habits can provide unique opportunities to capture dynamic images in flight.