A colorful Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) perched on a branch in Tanzania with a bee in its beak.
Emeralds of the Savannah: The Little Bee-eater in Action
How about a Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) to brighten your Tuesday morning? This particular specimen is doing exactly what its name suggests: enjoying a fresh catch!
The Art of the Aerial Hunt
The Little Bee-eater is a master of precision. These birds typically hunt from low perches, darting out to snatch insects—especially bees and wasps—directly out of the air. But how do they eat a stinging insect without getting hurt?
It then rubs the insect's abdomen against a hard branch, effectively removing the stinger and exhausting the venom. Once “de-stingered,” the bird consumes its meal.
A Living Rainbow
Common throughout sub-Saharan Africa, these birds are gorgeously attired and impossible to miss. They sport a brilliant green back, a vibrant yellow and orange throat, and a sharp black-and-blue eye line (the superciliary stripe). I spotted this colorful hunter while exploring the landscapes of northern Tanzania.
Curious about the blue eyebrow of the Little Bee-eater? Check out our post here.
Witness Africa’s Avian Wonders
You don’t have to be a birder to be dazzled by the Little Bee-eater. Their fearless nature and bright colors make them a favorite for photographers on our game drives.
2026 Safari Dates: Limited seats remain—join us to see the colors of the Serengeti for yourself.
2027 Waitlist: We are now accepting inquiries for Tanzania 2027. Email us here.