Plovers · Shorebirds
Northern Lapwing
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Vanellus vanellus
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Voice
Song
Sonothèque ADVL
Alarm
Jochem verweij
Call
Philippe_Grange
How to recognize it
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Jackdaw-sized, 28–33 cm
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Black-and-white pattern, green gloss on the back
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Long thin crest, red legs
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Broad rounded wings; tumbling display flight; calls "pee-wit", "peewit"
About the species
The northern lapwing moves with quick, restless steps and a sharp call that sounds like “pee-wit.” Its long crest and black-and-white pattern make it easy to notice in open places, especially when it turns in the air or wheels over a field.
During the breeding season it calls constantly, and the male adds tumbling display flights with wheezy cries. It nests on the ground and defends the area fiercely, raising a commotion when anything comes too close. Chicks rely on hiding rather than running.
Look for it in short grass, cultivated fields, wet meadows, and muddy flats. It feeds mainly on insects and other small invertebrates, and it can also probe the ground so worms come up. In much of its range it migrates, often in large flocks, while some western populations stay year-round.
Where to find
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On wet meadows and rough grassy lots — look for Northern Lapwing moving in quick bursts and picking insects from the ground.
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Along pond edges, ditches, and muddy banks — especially where there are slick silt strips and its sharp call carries over the water.
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On open lawns and fields at the city edge — in spring, the male circles low overhead while calling loudly.
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After rain on muddy paths and puddled ground — notice the quick runs and brief stops while it hunts for worms.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Vanellus vanellus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Northern lapwing Encyclopedia article