There are about 26 species of brightly-colored birds in this family. They are found in open or lightly wooded areas, usually near swamps, rivers, lakes, or flooded fields in tropical and semi-tropical regions of Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific.

Most of the species in this family are green with red, yellow, blue, or black markings. They are between 6 and 14 inches in length and have long tails and long, sharply pointed black bills. Many species have a black stripe that runs from the eye to the base of the bill.

Bee-eaters are insectivores and eat flying insects. They sit on branches or other perches and wait for insects to fly by and then give chase. They get the name bee-eater because they often eat bees and wasps.

Bee-eaters live in flocks and are very sociable. Most species build their nests on riverbanks. Bee-eaters are cooperative breeders. Non-breeding birds help build the nests and help incubate the eggs and feed, and raise the young.