Senegal Thick-knee

The Senegal thick-knee, a member of the stone-curlew family, is a medium-large wader that captivates with its cryptic plumage and reptilian-like large yellow eyes. Its long yellow or greenish legs, adorned with prominent joints, add to its distinctive appearance. When observed in flight, this species is particularly striking due to its broad white wing bar.

Identification Tips

To identify the Senegal thick-knee, look for its strong black and yellow bill and the single black bar on its folded wing. The darker cheek stripe sets it apart from its relative, the Eurasian stone-curlew. Although similar in appearance, the Senegal thick-knee is slightly smaller than its European counterpart.

Habitat

This species exhibits a preference for dry, open habitats with some bare ground, ideally situated near water sources.

Distribution

The Senegal thick-knee is a resident breeder found between the Sahara and the equator in Africa, as well as within the Nile valley.

Behaviour

Most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, the Senegal thick-knee exhibits a remarkable adaptation to its environment.

Song & Calls

The vocalization of the Senegal thick-knee is a distinctive and loud series of "pi-pi-pi-pi-pi-pi-pi" notes, often heard during its active periods.

Breeding

Breeding Senegal thick-knees lay two blotchy light brown eggs in a simple ground scrape, blending seamlessly with their surroundings.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Senegal thick-knee consists of insects, crustaceans, and a variety of other invertebrates. It is also known to consume other small prey items.

Conservation status

The Senegal thick-knee is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population status.