Brown-chested Lapwing
NameBrown-chested Lapwing
Common NameBrown-chested Lapwing
Scientific NameVanellus superciliosus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsThis lapwing has a greyish-brown head and neck, with a striking yellow wattle above the eye and a white supercilium. Its back and wings are brownish-grey, contrasting with a broad chestnut-brown breast band, a narrow white band below it, and a white belly. The tail is white with a broad black subterminal band, and the legs are dull yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically described as harsh, reedy 'kree-kree-kree' or 'krr-krr-krr' calls, often uttered when in flight or when alarmed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Brown-chested Lapwing is found in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily across a band from West Africa (e.g., Nigeria, Cameroon) eastward to Sudan and Uganda, extending south into parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a partial migrant, moving seasonally with the rains.
Identifying FeaturesProminent yellow wattle above the eye, Broad chestnut-brown breast band, White supercilium, Dull yellow legs, Brownish-grey upperparts and white underparts
Description
The Brown-chested Lapwing is a medium-sized wader characterized by its distinctive brown breast band and prominent yellow facial wattles. It typically forages for invertebrates in open grasslands and cultivated fields, often found in small flocks.
