Andean Lapwing

Overview

The Andean lapwing (Vanellus resplendens) is a monotypic species of bird in the family Charadriidae, found across the Andes of South America. Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, the species has a stable population estimated at under 6,700 mature individuals and is considered secure due to its occupation of high-altitude habitats with low human density.

Identification

• Approximately 33 cm long with a weight of 193 to 230 g.
• Adults possess a creamy gray head and neck featuring a dark brownish gray eye patch, bronzy green upperparts with purple wing coverts, a dark gray breast, and a white belly.
• Characterised by a pinkish orange bill with a black tip, reddish eyes, and reddish legs.
• Juveniles display a brownish head and neck, buff breast mottling, and pale buff fringes on the upperparts.
• Vocalisations include a sharp 'wik' alarm call, a harsh 'criee-criee-cri', a staccato 'cwi-cwi-cwi', and a mellow 'dididi---celeec-celeec-celeec-ce' note.

Habitat

This species inhabits a variety of open landscapes in the Andes, including páramo, puna, shore meadows, and open marsh areas, typically near lakes or rivers while avoiding saline waters. Its distribution spans from southwestern Colombia south through Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia into northern Chile and northwestern Argentina, generally between 2,700 and 4,600 m in elevation, though it can reach 5,000 m in Chile or descend to 1,500 m in the southern range.

Did you know?

While the Andean lapwing is essentially resident across most of its range, it occasionally reaches the coast during the austral winter.