Merops pusillus

The Little Bee-eater: East Africa’s Most Dazzling Safari Bird

A colorful Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) with emerald feathers and a light blue eyebrow perched on a branch in East Africa.

Emeralds of the Grasslands: The Little Bee-eater

Bee-eaters (Merops) are among the most common and captivating avians in Africa. Their radiant colors never fail to dazzle travelers. With 20 different species found across the continent—stretching from the Nile Valley to the Cape—their plumage ranges from brilliant scarlet to deep emerald.

Among these, the Little Bee-eater (Merops pusillus) holds a special place in the grasslands of East Africa.

The "Blue Eyebrow" Secret

While many bee-eaters share similar palettes, a distinguishing feature marks this one as a local specialty: the delicate, light blue line above its eye. Ornithologists refer to this line as superciliary, derived from the Latin words for "above" and "eyelid." This "eyebrow" gives the bird a refined, almost regal appearance despite its small size.

Why You’ll Love Them on Safari

You don't have to be a seasoned "birder" to enjoy the Little Bee-eater. Their habit of perching on low branches and their fearless nature make them a favorite for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Watching them swoop to catch insects mid-air is one of the most dynamic sights on the savannah.

Do you wonder how the Little Bee-eater earns his name? Follow the link here.

Join Us on Safari in 2026

Ready to see the colors of Africa for yourself? We are heading back to the heart of the East African grasslands in 2026. Whether you’re chasing the "Big Five" or the "Small Five," we have a seat waiting for you.

  • 2026 Expeditions: Booking is now open for our premier safari dates.

  • 2027 Planning: We are also accepting early inquiries for our 2027 return.

For details, consult our trip list here, or email us at BibleLandExplorer@gmail.com

Little Bee-eater eating a Little Bee

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?

  • The De-Stinger: Once caught, the bird returns to its perch and repeatedly slams the bee against a hard branch.

  • The Safety Measures: This rubbing and striking motion effectively removes the stinger and exhausts the venom before 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 an expert "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.