Madagascar Pratincole
NameMadagascar Pratincole
Common NameMadagascar Pratincole
Scientific NameGlareola ocularis
FamilyGlareolidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)90
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are olive-brown, with a contrasting white forehead and a prominent black stripe extending from the bill through the eye. The throat is buffy, transitioning to a rich reddish-orange on the belly and flanks, with a white vent. The bill is black with a distinctive red base, and the legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp 'kreek-kreek' or 'tew-tew-tew' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds exclusively in Madagascar, primarily along rivers and lakes. Migrates to coastal East Africa, from Somalia south to Mozambique, for the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesRed base to black bill, White forehead with black eye-stripe, Reddish-orange belly, Olive-brown upperparts, Forked tail (visible in flight)
Description
The Madagascar Pratincole is a medium-sized shorebird with a distinctive appearance, often seen foraging for insects in flight over open water or land. It is a migratory species, breeding in Madagascar and wintering along the coast and rivers of East Africa. This bird exhibits a graceful, tern-like flight.
