Double-striped Thick-knee

The double-striped thick-knee, known scientifically as Hesperoburhinus bistriatus, is a member of the stone-curlew family, Burhinidae. This medium-large wader is characterized by its strong black and yellow bill, large yellow eyes that impart a reptilian look, and cryptic plumage. Adults typically measure between 46 to 50 cm in length and weigh approximately 780 to 785 grams.

Identification Tips

In identifying the double-striped thick-knee, look for its finely streaked grey-brown upperparts, paler brown neck and breast that transitions smoothly into a white belly. The head is marked by a pronounced white supercilium, edged above by a black stripe. Juveniles resemble adults but have a slightly darker brown upperparts and a whitish nape. When in flight, the species is notable for a white patch on the dark upperwing and a white underwing with a black rear edge.

Habitat

The double-striped thick-knee favors arid grasslands, savannas, and other dry, open environments where it can blend into its surroundings.

Distribution

This bird is a year-round resident in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico to Colombia, Venezuela, and northern Brazil. It is also found on Hispaniola and some Venezuelan Caribbean islands. Rare vagrant sightings have occurred in Trinidad, Curaçao, and the United States.

Behaviour

The double-striped thick-knee is primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, preferring to avoid flight when possible and instead relies on its camouflage. It is known to be semi-domesticated in some regions due to its propensity to control insect populations.

Song & Calls

The nocturnal song of the double-striped thick-knee is a distinctive and loud "kee-kee-kee," often heard during the night.

Breeding

Breeding involves a simple scrape on the ground serving as a nest where two olive-brown eggs are laid. Both parents share the duty of incubating the eggs for 25 to 27 days until hatching. The downy chicks are precocial and quickly leave the nest to start fending for themselves.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of large insects along with other small vertebrate and invertebrate prey.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the double-striped thick-knee as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no significant threats to its population.