Lapwing, Sociable

Conservation status:

Rare Winter Visitor

Description:

Lapwing-sized, with more upright stance, especially when alert. In breeding plumage easily told by long white supercilium, joining on nape, black crown and chestnut-black belly. In winter, loses belly-patch, becomes mottled on breast and supercilium is less distinct (but white forehead usually quite prominent). Juvenile, which is browner than adult, has buffish wash to forehead and supercilium and pale feather-edgings on upperparts. In flight, shows fairly rounded wings, with conspicuous black, white and brownish upperwing pattern (approaching that of White-tailed), but shorter blackish legs and black band on tip of tail. Typical plover actions on ground, making short runs with head tucked into body, stopping to peck at ground or stand with head erect. Often seen in small parties, sometimes, in winter, with Lapwings, golden plovers and coursers.