Water Thick-knee

Overview

The water thick-knee, or water dikkop (Burhinus vermiculatus), is a species of bird in the thick-knee family Burhinidae. It is a widespread species across sub-Saharan Africa, typically found close to water.

Identification

• Length of 38 to 41 cm and weight of 293–320 g.
• Heavy black bill with pale yellow markings from the nostril to the base.
• Broad, blunt wings and a short tail.
• Pale greenish-yellow legs and greenish-yellow irises with black tracing.

Habitat

Found on the edges of lakes, estuaries, and rivers, as well as in mangroves and sheltered beaches. The species requires bushes or nearby woodlands for shelter and ranges from sea level to 1,800 m.

Diet

A terrestrial feeder that forages at night, consuming insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. Although typically associated with water, it can forage up to 1 km from water sources.

Did you know?

Thick-knee pairs frequently nest adjacent to or directly on top of Nile crocodile nests, engaging in a symbiotic mutualism where the birds act as loud sentries while the crocodiles provide protection against nest raiders.