We had been at the bush camp in Zambia for a few days when we had an opportunity to see a colony of Carmine Bee-Eaters. As we entered the blind near the shore we could see over a hundred of these bright red birds flying to and from their nesting cavities on the steep river bank. In the early morning light the birds became more active and congregated in groups. Individuals would fly away and then return with insects to feed the young inside the nests. Our guide explained that the birds knew exactly where to dig the nesting holes to avoid being swamped when the river level rose. The chattering activity of these crimson birds was mesmerizing,
A close relative of the Carmine is the Small Bee-Eater. With green, yellow and red markings, these colorful birds were often seen in small groups on low-hanging branches near water. While watching them one morning I was lucky to photograph one going “off menu” as he snatched a dragonfly that came to close.
