Infra-specific variation in Alcedo azurea Latham (Alcedinidae)

Abstract

Three subspecies of Alcedo azurea are recognized as occurring in Australia: diemenensis in Tasmania, azurea in southern and eastern Australia north to the Cairns-Cooktown area and ruficollaris in northern Australia between the Kimberley Division and Cape York Peninsula. They are distinguished by size and intensity of colour on the ventral surface and flanks; azurea and ruficollaris are probably linked by steep clines in these characters between Cairns and Princess Charlotte Bay. The distinctive first-year plumage, not considered in most previous analyses of geographical variation, is described for Australian forms. Relations with races outside Australia are discussed.