Indian Stone-curlew
NameIndian Stone-curlew
Common NameIndian Stone-curlew
Scientific NameBurhinus indicus
FamilyBurhinidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)42
Weight (g)380
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy-brown with heavy dark streaking, providing excellent camouflage. Underparts are paler, buffy-white with dark streaks on the breast and flanks. It has a prominent white supercilium above a dark eye-stripe, and a white patch on the wing visible in flight. The large eyes are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, wailing 'pick-pick-pick-pick-pick' or 'kur-luee' often given at night, which can be quite eerie and far-carrying.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Indian subcontinent, including India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and parts of Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, prominent yellow eyes, Cryptic streaky brown plumage, Long, bright yellow legs, Stout, short bill with a dark tip, Nocturnal habits, White supercilium and dark eye-stripe
Description
The Indian Stone-curlew is a medium-sized, nocturnal wader with cryptic streaky brown plumage, large yellow eyes, and long yellow legs. It is primarily ground-dwelling, often found in open woodlands and scrub, where its camouflage helps it blend seamlessly with its surroundings.
