Sociable Lapwing

The Sociable Lapwing, known as the Sociable Plover in the UK, is a medium-sized wader with a distinctive appearance. It has longish black legs and a short black bill, with a striking head pattern marked by a black crown and eyestripe, bordered with white. The underside is white, and the tail is white with a black terminal band. In flight, its brown, white, and grey wings are almost unmistakable.

Identification Tips

In non-breeding plumage, the Sociable Lapwing's wings are light brown, and the head pattern is pronounced. During the breeding season, the plumage becomes greyish and slightly glossy, with ochre cheeks and more pronounced stripes across the eyes and crown. The lower breast turns black, fading to rich chestnut near the vent. Juveniles exhibit a "scaly" appearance with bordered back feathers and only traces of the adult head pattern. The species measures between 27–30 cm (11–12 in) in length.

Habitat

The Sociable Lapwing prefers steppes, arid grasslands, and cultivated fields, differing from other lapwings that favor wetter environments.

Distribution

Breeding in the steppes of Kazakhstan, this fully migratory bird winters in the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Sudan. It has a historical presence in Europe but is now practically extirpated from the continent.

Behaviour

The Sociable Lapwing is known for its tendency to be present alongside conspecifics and other closely related birds. It feeds by picking insects and other small prey mainly from grassland or arable land.

Song & Calls

The call of the Sociable Lapwing is a harsh "kereck."

Breeding

Breeding occurs in the steppes of Kazakhstan, where three to four eggs are laid in a ground nest.

Similar Species

This bird can be confused with the more abundant White-tailed Lapwing but can be distinguished by its striped crown and dark grey legs, as opposed to the yellow legs and plain head of the White-tailed Lapwing.

Diet and Feeding

The Sociable Lapwing feeds on insects and other small prey found in grasslands or arable lands.

Conservation Status

The Sociable Lapwing is classified as Critically Endangered. Its population has been in decline, with current numbers at only 20-25% of historical counts. Despite a larger-than-feared population discovered through fieldwork, adults have low survival rates, and the population is projected to decline at a similar or accelerated rate. Hunting along migratory flyways is a notable threat.