Scott Ritchie of Cairns, Australia, posted this photo on his FB page as his Bird of the Year, along with an ID and message:

My bird of the year is, without a doubt, the Rainbow Bee-eater [Merops ornatus]. I had a piece published in Australian Birdlife on the lives of these pretty birds at our local cemetery.

This photo captures the spirit of these birds, and of Christmas. Family, friends, good food, colour and spirituality.

I will post my favourite bird photos after Christmas.

A Merry Christmas to you all.