King Fisher Park

Miles Ave., Corbin Ave., Barlow Ave., Fairfield St.

Staten Island, 10308

This text is part of Parks’ Historical Signs Project and can be found posted within the park.

The belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon), a marine bird-of-prey known for its loud, dry, rattle, is a year-round resident of the New York City area. It has a pointed powerful bill, and a large, ragged crest fore and rear. This crest and its diet of fish earned the kingfisher its majestic name. The bird frequently sits on tree limbs that jut out over the water until it spots its prey, usually small fish. When the moment is right, the kingfisher will dive into the water and fish out its meal.