Bee-eaters are a family of small to medium-sized passerine birds known for their vivid plumage, elegant profile and specialist aerial feeding. Members of the family Meropidae are found across Africa, Asia, Europe and Australasia and number about 26 species. Their long, slightly downcurved bills, pointed wings and streamlined bodies give them a swallow-like silhouette while distinctive colours—greens, blues, yellows and chestnuts—make many species highly conspicuous in their open-country habitats.

Characteristics and feeding behaviour

Bee-eaters are adapted to catching insects on the wing. They typically perch openly, watch for passing prey, then launch into a rapid pursuit to snatch flying insects mid-air. Their diet is dominated by Hymenoptera (bees, wasps and related insects) in many species, although flies, dragonflies and other aerial insects are also taken. A notable behaviour is the careful handling of stinging prey: a bee-eater will typically return to a perch and repeatedly strike and rub the insect to remove the sting and squeeze out venom before swallowing. They generally ignore the same kinds of insects once these have landed and become less available in flight.

Social structure and breeding

Many bee-eater species are social birds that nest in colonies. Colonies form where suitable soft banks or earth exposures allow excavation of tunnels: individuals or pairs dig burrows that lead to nesting chambers deep in sandy or loamy banks along rivers, roadsides or eroded cliffs. Most species form monogamous pairs and both parents feed the chicks; in several species helpers—usually related birds—assist with feeding, a cooperative behaviour uncommon among birds but well documented in some bee-eaters. Courtship and social displays, including aerial chases and communal roosting, are important elements of their life history.

Distribution, taxonomy and notable groups

Bee-eaters are strictly Old World and Australasian in distribution. They occur from southern Europe across Africa and Asia to Australia and New Guinea. The family includes several genera, among which the best-known are Merops and the smaller groups Nyctyornis and Meropogon. Species vary in size, plumage pattern and ecology: some are largely resident in tropical regions while others undertake seasonal migrations between breeding and non-breeding areas.

Human interactions and conservation

Bee-eaters are admired for their colours and aerial skills, but they sometimes come into conflict with beekeepers because of their appetite for honeybees. Persecution by humans is one localized threat, while habitat change that removes nesting banks or reduces insect prey can also cause declines. Many populations remain stable, but as with other insectivorous birds, long-term changes in insect abundance and land use are conservation concerns. Protection of breeding colonies and foraging habitats helps maintain healthy populations.

Quick facts and genera

  • Family: Meropidae.
  • Approximate number of species: 26.
  • Typical prey: flying insects, especially bees and wasps.
  • Common genera:
    • Merops
    • Nyctyornis
    • Meropogon

Further information

For those wishing to observe bee-eaters, look for small groups perched conspicuously on exposed branches or wires in open country; early morning and late afternoon are often the most active feeding times. Their striking colours, social behaviour and aerial agility make them a rewarding subject for study and birdwatching.