Spur-Winged Lapwings
These legs were made for wading. We are home to male ‘Chief’, and females ‘Gloria’ and ‘Matle’.
Eating for a cause
Spur-winged lapwings are essential to their ecosystems because they regulate invertebrate populations. While their long, thin legs look delicate, they are perfect for wading through water in search of food or running on land at high speeds. This species may stamp its feet in what is known as foot trembling to flush out prey from hiding spots.
- IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (at relatively low risk of extinction)
- Type: Bird
- Habitat: A variety of habitats in sub-Saharan Africa as well as the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean
- Diet: Carnivore – small lizards, crustaceans, and insects
- Size: 25 centimetres long
- Weight: 127 to 170 grams
facts about our animals
Fun Facts about Spur-Winged Lapwings
As a member of the plover family, this species is also known as a spur-winged plover.
They have large red eyes which they rely on for hunting.
This species has a spur hidden under its wings for defense.
While it is a wading bird, spur-winged lapwings can be found in dry habitats.
Spur-winged lapwings are monogamous for life.
They make their nests in holes in the ground.
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