Czajka

Czajka is the Polish word for lapwing, specifically referring to several species of plovers in the genus Vanellus. The most common species referred to by this name is the Northern Lapwing, Vanellus vanellus. This bird is a distinctive wading bird found across Europe and Asia. It is recognizable by its iridescent green and purple plumage, a prominent crest on its head, and a loud, wailing call from which its common names in many languages derive.

The Northern Lapwing is a medium-sized bird, typically measuring around 30-35 cm in length with a wingspan of 70-90 cm. They inhabit a variety of open habitats, including grasslands, pastures, moorlands, and cultivated fields, often near wetlands. Their diet consists primarily of insects, worms, and other invertebrates, which they forage for by probing the ground with their bills.

During the breeding season, lapwings are known for their acrobatic aerial displays, often performed to deter predators or attract mates. They are also notable for their characteristic alarm calls, which can be quite persistent. The species is migratory, with populations in northern regions moving south for the winter. Czajka is a familiar sight and sound in the Polish countryside, and its presence is often associated with spring and early summer.