Blue-capped kingfisher  (Actenoides hombroni)

The blue-capped kingfisher has a restricted range in which its forest habitat is rapidly disappearing, causing a decline in population numbers (2) (4). In the late 1980s, Mindanao retained only 29 percent of its original forest cover, and further loss and degradation has taken place since (6). Slash-and-burn agriculture, harvesting of non-timber forest products such as rattan and palm, logging operations and mining activities, have all played their part in the destruction of Mindanao's forests and the kingfisher's home. Civil strife has also often had a negative impact on the natural habitat, and rebellion groups deliberately setting fire to forests is a problem, particularly on the Zamboanga Peninsula. Even within so-called protected areas, widespread and unchecked illegal logging threatens Mindanao's wildlife (6).

The blue-capped kingfisher has been recorded within Mount Kitanglad Natural Park, Mount Malindang National Park and Mount Matutum Forest Reserve, which may offer some protection, although, as mentioned above, illegal activities still pose a threat. The blue-capped kingfisher was also recorded in Mount Apo Natural Park many years ago, but this area has since suffered massive human encroachment which the kingfisher may not have survived (2). Further information on the blue-capped kingfisher's biology is urgently required (2), which can be used to inform future conservation actions.