Northern Lapwing

12 hours ago

Spotted

The Northern Lapwing is a distinctive and elegant wader known for its iridescent green-black upperparts, white belly, and long, wispy crest. It is often found in open fields and various wetlands.

Where to spot

Found across Europe and Asia, particularly in open farmlands, wet grasslands, ploughed fields, and the edges of wetlands and marshes.

How to spot

Identify by its rounded wings, iridescent green-black upperparts, white underparts, and long crest. Listen for its distinctive 'pee-wit' call and watch for its erratic, tumbling flight displays, especially during courtship.

When to spot

Year-round in many parts of its range; migrants are best observed during spring and autumn. Look for their elaborate and acrobatic aerial display flights during the breeding season (spring).

Where to spot

Found across Europe and Asia, particularly in open farmlands, wet grasslands, ploughed fields, and the edges of wetlands and marshes.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round in many parts of its range; migrants are best observed during spring and autumn. Look for their elaborate and acrobatic aerial display flights during the breeding season (spring).

Credits: Georg_Wietschorke

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: leswhalley

Credits: DerWeg

Credits: Georg_Wietschorke

The Lapwing's common name comes from its characteristic slow, floppy flight, which resembles a 'lapping' motion. Its loud, distinctive call, 'pee-wit,' also gave rise to another common name for the species.

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