23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Kingfisher’s Perch

A Blythe's Kingfisher perches on a branch in Mithaghoda, India, its honey-colored breast feathers enhanced by the golden light of the setting sun. These birds are large (for kingfishers), usually around nine inches long. They live near streams and small waterways throughout South and Southeast Asia, diving into the water to catch fish and insects.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Mithaghoda, India
Camera: Canon EOS R1
Copyright: © Nathan Myhrvold