Crowned Lapwing
A species of Lapwings Scientific name : Vanellus coronatus Genus : Lapwings
Crowned Lapwing, A species of Lapwings
Botanical name: Vanellus coronatus
Genus: Lapwings
Content
Description General Info
Description
The crowned lapwing is easily recognized by its combination of brown and white colours, with most tellingly, a black crown intersected by an annular white halo. Adults are noisy and conspicuous. Males measure on average 3% larger than females. Juveniles are dull versions of adults, vermiculated on the wings and mantle, the legs yellowy rather than red and the bill lacking the red base.
Size
34 cm
Feeding Habits
Crowned Lapwing primarily feeds on insects, with termites being a significant part of its diet. Crowned Lapwing exhibits foraging behavior, actively hunting for prey. They have a unique preference for termites, reflecting a dietary specialization.
Habitat
Crowned Lapwing typically inhabit open and dry environments, ranging from savannas to sparse woodlands. They have adapted to various man-made landscapes, including agricultural fields, airports, and golf courses. Crowned Lapwing avoid moist regions, opting for places like burnt grassland, suggesting a preference for treeless terrains. Geographically, they are found within the broad expanses of dry central Africa and are known to roost near bodies of water. Unlike other species, crowned Lapwing do not rely on proximity to water, although they are seen in areas up to 1970 meters in altitude. The species has thrived in the wake of human activity and is subject to international conservation efforts.
Dite type
Insectivorous
General Info
Behavior
Crowned lapwings and the more localized black-winged lapwings sometimes associate and do not show mutual aggression, even within breeding territories. Different crowned lapwing males do however posture aggressively when nesting territories are established. The loser in an encounter assumes a special posture to signal his defeat. Bare-part colours of males brighten in the breeding season. Different types of display flights lure the female to the defended territory. A female accepting the male and territory will follow the male during his display flight. Mates may be retained for life. Egg-laying is timed to precede the rainy season and most incubating is done by the female. The male assists only on hot days, when he either incubates or shades the nest.
Species Status
Not globally threatened.