Sociable Lapwing
Image: Wa'el Almatni (cc-by-nc)
NameSociable Lapwing
Common NameSociable Lapwing
Scientific NameVanellus gregarius
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)220
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black crown, a prominent white supercilium, and a dark stripe extending from the eye. Upperparts are sandy-brown, while underparts are white, featuring a black belly patch and chestnut undertail coverts during the breeding season. Non-breeding birds and juveniles exhibit duller plumage.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a harsh, grating 'kree-kree-kree' or 'kvit-kvit-kvit' call, often given when in flight or when alarmed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, steppe, agricultural fields, semi-desert
Conservation Statuscritically-endangered
Geographic RangeBreeds in the steppes of Russia and Kazakhstan, migrating south through Central Asia and the Middle East to winter in parts of Africa (e.g., Sudan, Eritrea) and India.
Identifying Featuresblack crown, white supercilium, dark eye-stripe, sandy-brown upperparts, black belly patch (breeding), long dark legs, distinctive flight pattern with black primaries and white secondaries
Description
The Sociable Lapwing is a medium-sized wader characterized by its distinctive head pattern and long legs. It typically forages in open grasslands and steppes, often in small groups, searching for invertebrates.
