The Somali Bee-eaters (Merops revoilii) are small African bee-eaters – so named for their favorite prey: bees.
Distribution / Habitat
Their range stretches from Somalia east into southeastern Ethiopia, west to Saudi Arabia, and south to northern and eastern Kenya (west of Lake Turkana south to Tsavo National Park) and Tanzania. They prefer dry country and desert areas and are usually seen alone or in pairs (during the breeding season).
The Somali Bee-eater, true to its name is found primarily in Somalia and parts of Ethiopia, Kenya, and Djibouti. These birds are found in semi-arid, dry regions where they can feed on abundant insect populations.
The Somali Bee-eater prefers open woodlands and scrublands. They are often found near water sources, such as rivers, lakes or wetlands. They prefer sparse vegetation because it allows them to perch and scan for prey. Somali Bee-eaters, unlike many other birds, are rarely found in dense forest. Their hunting style, which involves catching flying insects, requires an open area with clear views.
The Somali Bee Eater can be seen perched on power lines or trees. It is able to spot its prey at a distance and then dive in high speed for the target. They are often seen in agricultural areas where insect populations are high. However, they avoid highly urbanized areas.
Description
Size
The Somali Bee-eater is the second smallest Bee-eater after the Little Bee-eater. It only measures 6.3 – 7.1 inches (~16 – 18 cm), including the tail.
Plumage Details / Adults
This bee-eater is mostly green above, except for a blue rump, reddish-brown forehead, and, blackish bar that extends across the eyes down to the sides of the neck. The plumage below is cinnamon.
Diet / Feeding
Somali-beaters feed primarily on bees but will take other small flying insects – depending on the availability of prey and season. Insects are often caught in flight with short dashes from low perches.
Although they are known to hunt bees as their main prey, the diet of this species is not restricted. The ants will also eat flying insects such as dragonflies and wasps.
Their hunting strategy is based on the method in which they catch their prey. They are usually seen perched on open ground, with a clear view of the sky. They take off at incredible speed after spotting an insect. Their sharp beaks are used to catch the prey in flight. The bee-eater returns to its perch after catching its prey, and sometimes uses its beaks to remove the stinger before swallowing.
The ability of the Somali Bee Eater to deal with potentially dangerous prey such as wasps and bees is one of its most interesting features. The bee-eater usually smashes the insects against a surface hard, like a branch to kill or stun them. The bird can safely consume the insect without getting stung. This shows off its intelligence and specialized eating techniques.
Breeding / Nesting
Somali Bee-eaters mostly breed between March and June. They usually nest in the sides of deep wells; they may dig holes in cliffs or banks of earth. According to IUCN Red List, this species is well documented.
They usually nest in small colonies that comprise family groups, known as “clans”. Non-breeding adults or immature birds participate in raising the young of other members – something that is commonly referred to as “cooperative breeding.” According to iNaturalist, this species is well documented.
Breeding season occurs in the Somali Bee Eater during the rainy seasons when insects and food are plentiful. Males perform aerial displays during courtship to attract females. These displays can include swooping and diving as well as calling. They are all meant to display the male’s agility. The pair will then begin nesting once the female has been impressed.
The Somali Bee-eaters don’t build nests like other bee-eaters in trees. They prefer to dig burrows into soft soil that are vertically stacked. Nesting sites are often found along riverbanks, or in areas where the earth is exposed. This provides the birds the conditions they need to dig tunnels. Burrows usually measure 1-2 meters in depth, and the female lays 3 to 5 eggs. The eggs are incubated by both parents, and it usually takes 20-25 days. The chicks will be fed by both of their parents once they hatch and kept in the burrow for as long as it takes them to become independent.
After leaving the nest the young birds remain close to their parents to learn to hunt and to refine their skills. Young Somali Bee-eaters often stay in families for a while before going out on their own
Calls / Vocalizations / Sounds
The calls are described as deep squeaks.
Conservation Status: A Species Facing Habitat Loss
The International Union for Conservation of Nature has classified the Somali Bee-eater as a species of “Least Concern”, meaning it is stable and does not face immediate threats of extinction. Like many species, the Somali Bee-eater is not without challenges. The Somali Bee-eater is at risk of habitat loss as a result of agricultural expansion, deforestation, and land degradation. This is especially true in areas where human populations are growing. These birds are heavily dependent on open woodlands for nesting and foraging. Any destruction to these habitats can have a negative impact on their numbers.
Climate change is also a concern for many species of birds, including the Somali Bee Eater. Temperature, rainfall patterns and insect populations can change the availability of food, nesting sites and nesting materials, which could affect the bird’s long-term survival.
To maintain stable populations, conservation efforts focusing on habitat preservation will be critical, especially in regions where the Somali Bee Eater is most prevalent. By supporting sustainable agricultural practices, protecting the natural landscapes and reducing deforestation, we can ensure that these colorful bird species continue to thrive within their native range.
Conclusion
The Somali Bee Eater is an agile and stunning bird. It stands out for its colorful plumage, but also its unique hunting technique and its essential role in controlling insects populations. This bird is a marvel of nature, with its aerial displays and its ability to catch potentially dangerous prey.
The Somali Bee-eater may not be endangered at this time, but it is important to continue efforts to ensure its survival. The Somali Bee-eater deserves to be admired by all bird watchers, but especially those who are interested in the amazing diversity of bird species.
Alternate (Global) Names
Chinese: ????? … Czech: Vlha somálská … Danish: Somalibiæder … Dutch: Somalibijeneter, Somalische Bijeneter … Estonian: Somaali mesilasenäpp … Finnish: Somalianmehiläissyöjä … French: Guêpier de Revoil … German: Blaßspint, Somalispint … Italian: Gruccione della / di Somalia … Japanese: somariahachikui, somari-hachikui … Norwegian: Somalibieter … Polish: Zolna blada … Russian: ??????????? ????? … Slovak: v?elárik bledý … Spanish: Abejaruco Somalí … Swedish: Somalibiätare … Swahili: Kerem Somali
