River Lapwing

Overview

The river lapwing (Vanellus duvaucelii) is a lapwing species that breeds across the Indian subcontinent and extends eastwards to Southeast Asia. It is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and appears to be an entirely sedentary species.

Identification

• A length of 29–32 cm with a black crest, crown, face, and central throat contrasting with grey-white neck sides and nape.
• Grey-brown breast band over white underparts featuring a distinct black belly patch, with a brown back, white rump, and black tail.
• Striking in flight due to black primaries, white underwings, and white upper wing secondaries.
• Emits a sharp 'tip-tip' or 'did-did-did' call.

Habitat

This species ranges from much of northern and northeastern India through Southeast Asia to Vietnam. It favours shingle and sand banks for nesting, as well as nearby wet grassland and farmland.

Diet

The river lapwing forages for insects, worms, crustaceans, and molluscs in wet grassland and farmland environments. It is not gregarious during foraging activities.

Did you know?

Formerly known as the spur-winged lapwing, this name is now better reserved for the African Vanellus spinosus to resolve confusion with the masked lapwing of Australasia.