Though only the size of a sparrow, the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) found in Europe, Asia and Africa looks anything but common to birders from North America.

Our much larger belted kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) is plain by comparison.

What’s not to love about a tiny iridescent electric blue bird?

I am suffering from kingfisher envy.

(photos from Wikimedia Commons; click on the images to see the originals)