White-crowned Lapwing
NameWhite-crowned Lapwing
Common NameWhite-crowned Lapwing
Scientific NameVanellus albiceps
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)72
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThis lapwing has a grey head and neck with a distinctive white crown patch. Its bill is yellow with a black tip, complemented by prominent yellow facial wattles. The back and wings are brown, contrasting with a broad black band across the white breast and white underparts. Its long legs are pale greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a loud, ringing 'kew-wit' or 'kew-wit-wit' call, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in sub-Saharan Africa, primarily along major rivers and lakes, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featureswhite crown patch, bright yellow facial wattles, yellow bill with black tip, grey head and neck, brown back and wings, black breast band, pale greenish-yellow legs
Description
The White-crowned Lapwing is a medium-sized wader characterized by its striking head pattern and bright yellow facial wattles. It typically forages for invertebrates along the edges of rivers and other wetlands, often seen singly or in pairs.
