Martin pêcheur d'Europe, Alcedo atthis ; European kingfisher

The kingfisher is widespread in Wallonia but is missing locally in middle Belgium and in higher Ardenne. The field prospection for the atlas took place in a favorable climatic context; the current population, estimated at 450 650 pairs, reflects probably the saturation of the habitat. The highest densities are found along large rivers, with important fishing ressources and numerous nesting sites (Lesse, Ourthe, Semois, Viroin). The limiting fator seems to be the lack of nesting sites.