Spotted Thick-knee

Overview

The spotted thick-knee (Burhinus capensis), also known as the spotted dikkop, is a wader native to tropical regions of central and southern Africa. It is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN due to its very extensive range and stable population.

Identification

• Reaches up to 45.5 cm in height with long yellow legs and an expanded tibiotarsal joint.
• Features brown-and-white speckled plumage that provides effective camouflage in grasslands.
• Possesses a large, round head with a prominent yellow eye and a short, stout beak.
• Displays a striking contrasting pattern when in flight or standing with wings raised.

Habitat

This bird inhabits the grasslands and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa, with a range extending from Senegal, Mali and Mauritania in the west to Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa in the east and south, as well as south Yemen. It roams these open environments where its plumage aids in concealment.

Diet

The spotted thick-knee hunts exclusively on the ground, feeding on insects, small mammals and lizards. As a nocturnal species, it squats on the ground during the daytime to remain hidden while it forages at night.

Did you know?

Parents defend their nests by adopting a defensive pose with wings spread and will sometimes fake injuries to lead predators away from the chicks. Both male and female birds participate in rearing the offspring, bringing food back to the nest together.