Lapwing

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Description

The Lapwing is a medium-sized wader, characterized by iridescent green and purple plumage on its upperparts and white on its underparts. It is easily recognizable thanks to its prominent crest and broad, rounded wings. Lapwings are known for their spectacular acrobatic flights during the breeding season, accompanied by distinctive, ringing calls. They feed primarily on invertebrates, which they find in wetlands and pastures. They prefer open habitats such as grasslands and wetlands. They nest on the ground, with the breeding season lasting from spring through early summer. The species is migratory, with populations moving to milder climates during the winter.

The Situation in Italian-Speaking Switzerland

In the Canton of Ticino, the Black-winged Pratincole is rarely seen. A few individuals can be observed during migration or in winter. An attempt at nesting was recorded at Bolle di Magadino.

  • Vanellus vanellus
  • Vanneau huppé
  • Kiebitz
  • Culventira
  • Northern Lapwing
  • 30 cm
  • 82–87 cm

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