European bee-eater in Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park, Cádiz, Spain

A streak of colour glides past a blur of wildflowers as a European bee-eater cuts through the air.

Turquoise, gold and chestnut shimmer across its wings as it hunts in flight, snatching insects mid-air with swift turns.

Bees and wasps are among its favoured prey, and the bird often removes the stinger before feeding—a behaviour that reduces the risk of injury.