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The European bee-eater, Merops apiaster, is a bird of arresting beauty and grace. Its plumage is a kaleidoscope of warm hues, with brown and yellow adorning its upper parts, while the wings boast a vibrant green. The beak, a stark black, contrasts sharply with the bird's colorful attire. This slender avian can reach a length of 27–29 cm, including the elongated central tail feathers that add to its elegance. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though the female may sport greener shoulder feathers compared to the male's gold.
When identifying the European bee-eater, look for its distinctive coloration and sleek profile. The non-breeding plumage is more subdued, with a blue-green back and the absence of elongated central tail feathers. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but exhibit less variation in feather colors. During the moulting period, adults transition to breeding plumage, which is completed before their winter migration to Africa.
These birds favor open country in warmer climates, often found in proximity to sandy banks and river shores where they can nest and forage with ease.
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The European bee-eater breeds across southern and central Europe, parts of northern and southern Africa, and western Asia. While the southern African population remains resident year-round, others migrate to tropical Africa for the winter. Occasionally, they are seen north of their typical range, with sporadic breeding in northern Europe.
Gregarious by nature, European bee-eaters nest colonially in sandy banks, with communal tendencies extending to feeding and roosting. Courtship involves the male presenting the female with large prey items, a gesture of both affection and sustenance.
The call of the European bee-eater is a melodious and liquid "prreee" or "prruup," a sound as mellow as the bird's demeanor.
Breeding season sees these birds tunneling into sandy banks to lay their spherical white eggs, with both parents sharing the duties of incubation and care. The eggs hatch after about three weeks, and the young are raised with communal diligence.
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While the European bee-eater is distinctive, it may be confused with other bee-eater species. However, its unique coloration and tail feathers generally set it apart.
True to their name, European bee-eaters feast primarily on bees, wasps, and hornets. They exhibit remarkable skill in catching these insects mid-flight and have a unique method of removing the sting before consumption. Their diet is predominantly composed of Hymenoptera, particularly the European honey bee.
The IUCN lists the European bee-eater as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival. However, their interactions with bee populations and apiaries are of interest to conservationists and apiculturists alike.
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