The European bee-eater is a stunningly colorful bird that captivates nature enthusiasts with its striking plumage and fascinating behaviors.

From its unique diet of insects to its cooperative breeding habits, this bird offers a glimpse into the wonders of the natural world.

Taxonomy and Origins

Formally described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, the European bee-eater (Merops apiaster) derives its name from the Greek "Merops" and Latin "apiaster," both meaning "bee-eater." These birds breed in southern and central Europe, northern and southern Africa, and western Asia, while the migratory populations winter in tropical Africa.

Appearance and Plumage

The European bee-eater is a slender bird with vivid coloration, including brown and yellow upper parts, green wings, and a black beak. Measuring 27–29 cm (10.6–11.4 in) in length, its elongated tail feathers add elegance to its profile. While males and females appear similar, females often exhibit greener feathers on their shoulders. Juveniles and non-breeding adults display a more subdued palette. Annual molting occurs between June and September, with an additional molt into breeding plumage during winter in Africa.

Breeding and Social Behavior

These gregarious birds nest in colonies, often along sandy riverbanks, starting in May. Their tunnels house 5–8 spherical white eggs, incubated by both parents for three weeks. Remarkably social, European bee-eaters also feed and roost communally.

During courtship, males present larger prey to females, keeping smaller catches for themselves. While primarily monogamous, occasional instances of bigamy have been observed. Their call is a distinctive, liquid "prreee" or "prruup."

Diet and Feeding Habits

As their name implies, European bee-eaters primarily consume insects, especially bees, wasps, and hornets. These birds are adept hunters, catching prey mid-flight and removing stingers by striking the insect against a hard surface. Their diet is largely composed of bees, making up 69.4% to 82% of their food intake in some regions.

Despite consuming around 250 bees daily, their overall impact on bee populations is minimal, accounting for less than 1% of worker bees in shared habitats. They exhibit higher food-to-body weight conversion efficiency when consuming a varied diet, including bees and dragonflies.

Interactions with Beekeepers

Bee-eaters can occasionally pose challenges for beekeepers. Colonies near apiaries may result in increased predation of honey bees. However, studies reveal that the birds primarily forage on insects in meadows and pastures within a 12 km (7.5 mi) radius, rarely targeting apiaries directly. Predation spikes during cold or rainy weather when alternative prey is scarce.

Contrary to common beliefs, research from Libya shows that bee-eaters do not significantly hinder bee foraging. In fact, the presence of these birds can coincide with increased foraging activity, debunking myths about their impact.

The Importance of Conservation

Understanding the ecological role of the European bee-eater helps foster harmony between these vibrant birds and human activities, such as beekeeping. Promoting awareness of their behavior and habits ensures their survival and the continued biodiversity of shared ecosystems.