Red-bearded bee-eater
A large species of bee-eater native to the Indo-Malaysian subregion of South-east Asia.
Associated with the human soul among the Jah-het tribe. Also known as ruh burong or "spirit bird."
Y'know, maybe there's something to this whole keeping a wiki thing. This looks pretty sharp. -Dex
Thank you! -Carolyn
Basic Information
Anatomy
Like other bee-eaters, they are colourful birds with long tails, long decurved beaks and pointed wings. They are large bee-eaters, predominantly green, with a red coloration to face that extends on to the slightly hanging throat feathers to form the “beard”. Their eyes are orange.
Genetics and Reproduction
Bee-eaters are monogamous during a nesting season, and in sedentary species, pairs may stay together for multiple years. Migratory bee-eaters may find new mates each breeding season.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Like other bee-eaters, they predominantly eat insects, especially bees, wasps and hornets, which are caught in flight from perches concealed in foliage. They hunt alone or in pairs, rather than in flocks, and sit motionless for long periods before pursuing their prey.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Associated Spells
- The Jah-het believe that if a pregnant woman hears a bee-eater in the forest, she knows that the spirit of her child has arrived.
- When a man dies, the Jah-het believe his soul leaves in the form of a bee-eater.
Civilization and Culture
History
Unknown to most Western science communities, red-bearded bee-eaters are highly intelligent. The Jah-het tribe of Malaysia believes they represent human souls and they aren't far away from the truth. Bee-eaters are psychopomps, ushering human souls to and from the afterlife. They communicate with other psychopomps from other ritual societies and occasionally will communicate directly with humans. Generally, they are seen perching near the homes of the dying or women in childbirth, as they are guarding their charges either coming into or leaving the world.
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