lapwing

Lapwing is the common name for several wading birds in the family Charadriidae, most of which are placed in the genus Vanellus. They are medium-sized shorebirds with broad wings, long legs, and often a distinctive crest on the head. Plumage is variable by species, but many have striking facial patterns and a white or pale rump in flight. The best known is the Northern Lapwing, Vanellus vanellus, widespread through Europe and Asia; the Southern Lapwing, Vanellus chilensis, occupies much of South America.

Habitat and ecology: Lapwings inhabit open country such as meadows, pastures, farmland, heaths, and wetlands. They feed on a mixed diet of invertebrates, seeds, and occasionally small vertebrates, foraging by pecking on the ground. They often nest on the ground in shallow scrapes lined with vegetation; eggs are well camouflaged. Both parents incubate; young are precocial.

Behavior: They are strong fliers and perform rapid, looping flights with distinctive wing sounds in display and alarm. Some species undertake seasonal migrations, particularly the Northern Lapwing, which winters further south.

Conservation: Most Lapwing species are assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, but several African and Asian species have restricted ranges and face threats from habitat loss, agricultural intensification, and hunting. Conservation measures focus on protecting wetlands and open habitats.