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Lapwing


Lapwing, courtesy of Colin Smith - avico.co.uk

The lapwing is also known as the green plover.

They can be found wading in wetlands and on farmland all year round, although they tend to move to lowlands during the winter. Lapwings are known for their impressive aerial abilities, often swooping, diving and twisting in a seemingly uncontrolled manner.

The last few decades have seen a dramatic decline in breeding pairs of lapwings.

Facts

Appearance: Lapwings have a distinctive plume of black feathers which stand up from the back of their head. They are about the same size as a pigeon and appear black on top and white underneath. They have pink legs and rounded-wings which they beat rather slowly.

Size: 28-31cm, with a wingspan of 70-75cm

Weight: 150-300g

Lifespan: 4-5 years

Diet: Feeds on worms, beetles, insects and caterpillars

Family: Charadriidae

Did you know?

  • Lapwings like to nest on the ground in an open area, where they can get a good, all-round view of approaching predators.
  • Only 25-40% of chicks survive into adulthood.
  • The old country name for lapwings is the peewit – a nod to its song