Carmine bee-eaters, always on the move

This Phanhabs illustration was inspired by the carmine bee-eater colonies we saw in North Luangwe, Zambia. Because they live in large flocks, they make an amazing sight with their predominantly carmine coloration. Bee-eaters like to breed in riverbanks, where they build long tunnels. At least this keeps the young safe from birds of prey, but lizards will still be able to find a way into the nests. The sound level around the colony is impressive. Birds hawking insects and flying in and out of the nests to bring food for their young. It takes some time to get good pictures of them, they are always on the move…