African-Mediterranean “Spur-Winged Lapwing” Rare Bird Sighted in India

GS Paper III Biodiversity & Environment

Context:

African-Mediterranean wader bird spur-winged lapwing has been spotted at Ammavaripet Lake near Warangal for the first time in India.

Spur-Winged Lapwing

It is a wading bird.
Scientific Name: Vanellus spinosus.
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Habitat: Spur-winged lapwings live primarily in the sub-Saharan belt of central Africa.
- This species thrives in the environment of marshes and freshwater wetlands.
Native: The Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
Dieting and Forage:
- Carnivore: Feeds on insects, worms, and small fish.
Distinctive Features Of Spur-Winged Lapwing
- It has striking brown, black, and white plumage.
  - Its face, neck, and belly are white
  - It has a black crown on its head.
- Its eyes are bright red.
- They have long, thin legs that enable them to wade and run in marshy and shallow areas.
- This bird is vocal and produces repeated “sik-sik-sik…” calls.

Spur-Winged Lapwing

Ammavaripet Cheruvu is a lake located in Hanamkonda, Telangana, India.
This lake is famous for fishing and birdwatching.
Ammavaripet Cheruvu derives its name from the nearby village of Ammavaripet.

Also Read: Birders’ Network Finds Rare Pelagic Birds on Karnataka’s Coast

News Source: Thehindu

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