Green Bee-eater (Merops orientalis)
The Green Bee-eater is a small, colorful bird that belongs to the family Meropidae. It is found in parts of Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, and China.
These birds have a distinctive appearance, with bright green feathers on their head, back, and wings, and a yellow throat and breast. They have long, pointed wings and a slender, curved bill.
Green Bee-eaters are typically found in open habitats, such as grasslands, scrublands, and agricultural areas, where they feed on insects, mainly bees, wasps, and other flying insects. They are known for their agile and acrobatic flight, which allows them to catch insects in mid-air.
During breeding season, Green Bee-eaters build tunnels in the ground, where they lay 4-7 eggs. Both parents share the duties of incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
Green Bee-eaters are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN Red List, although some populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, hunting, and the use of pesticides. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats, including the designation of protected areas and the implementation of sustainable agricultural practices.
Overall, the Green Bee-eater is an interesting and important species that plays a significant role in many terrestrial ecosystems in its range.