Black-winged Lapwing
NameBlack-winged Lapwing
Common NameBlack-winged Lapwing
Scientific NameVanellus melanopterus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)72
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey head and neck, a prominent black breast band, and white underparts. The back and wings are brown, and in flight, the primary and secondary flight feathers are distinctly black. They have a red eye-ring, a black bill, and pinkish-red legs.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, often repeated, harsh and reedy 'kreek-kreek-kreek' or 'tee-wit' sound, sometimes given in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, savanna
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in eastern and southern Africa, with a separate population occurring in southwestern Arabia.
Identifying FeaturesBlack breast band, Grey head and neck, Brown back and wings, White underparts, Red eye-ring, Pinkish-red legs
Description
The Black-winged Lapwing is a medium-sized wader characterized by its striking black breast band and grey head. It is typically found foraging for invertebrates in open grasslands and savannas, often in small groups.
