Claim: The common kingfisher was first described by Carl Linnaeus, the modern binomial name derives from the Greek and genus Alcedo comprises seven small kingfishers.
Evidence: The common kingfisher was first described by Carl Linnaeus in the 10th edition of his Systema Naturae in 1758 as Gracula atthis. The modern binomial name derives from the Latin , 'kingfisher' (from Greek , halcyon), and Atthis, a beautiful young woman of Lesbos, and favourite of Sappho. The genus Alcedo comprises seven small kingfishers that all eat fish as part of their diet.