About the Little Bee Eater
The Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) is a small, strikingly colorful bird species found across sub-Saharan Africa.
Habitat
Little Bee-eaters inhabit a variety of open habitats, including savannas, grasslands, woodlands, scrublands, and riverbanks. They are often found in areas with scattered trees or bushes, which they use as perches for hunting insects. These bee-eaters are commonly seen in both natural and human-modified landscapes, including agricultural areas, urban parks, and gardens.
Length
Little Bee-eaters are small birds, measuring approximately 15 to 17 centimeters (6 to 7 inches) in length, including their elongated central tail feathers. They have a slender body with a small head, a short, slightly curved bill, and long, pointed wings. Their plumage is predominantly green, with a red patch on the throat, a black mask across the eyes, and yellow or orange patches on the throat and crown.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Little Bee-eaters are in open habitats with suitable perches for hunting insects. Look for them perched on tree branches or wires, where they scan their surroundings for flying insects. These bee-eaters are often seen performing aerial displays, including darting flights and agile maneuvers, as they catch insects on the wing.