Habitat:
Savannas, open woodlands, riverine areas

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

Identification and description:
The Little Bee-eater, Merops pusillus, is a vibrant and fascinating bird, easily recognizable by its bright green plumage, yellow throat, and distinctive black eye stripe. Measuring about 15 to 17 cm in length, it is one of the smallest members of its family. It primarily inhabits savannas, open woodlands, and riverine areas in sub-Saharan Africa. The Little Bee-eater is an agile predator, feeding mainly on flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which it catches in flight. It is often seen in small groups, perched on low branches, from where it launches to catch its prey. Although relatively tolerant of human presence, it remains cautious and prefers to keep its distance.

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

Photography tips:
To photograph the Little Bee-eater, focus on early morning or late afternoon hours when the light is soft and enhances the vivid colors of its plumage. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and observe its hunting habits to anticipate its movements. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially if using a long focal length. Finally, try to capture the bird in flight to showcase its agility and natural grace.