Wattled Lapwing
NameWattled Lapwing
Common NameWattled Lapwing
Scientific NameVanellus senegallus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)83
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)250
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly brown on the back and wings, with a white belly. The head is grey with a distinctive white stripe running from the forehead over the eye. A prominent red wattle is present above the eye, extending to a yellow wattle at the base of the bill. The bill is yellow with a black tip, and the long legs are bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a loud, harsh, and often repeated 'kreek-kreek-kreek' or 'did-did-did-do-it' sound, especially when alarmed or in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound widely across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia and Kenya in the east, and south to Angola and South Africa.
Identifying Featuresprominent red and yellow facial wattles, white crown stripe, bright yellow legs, yellow bill with black tip, brown upperparts and white underparts
Description
The Wattled Lapwing is a large, striking plover found across sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by its brown body, white crown stripe, and prominent red and yellow facial wattles. This species is typically found foraging in open grasslands and wetlands, often seen in pairs or small groups.
