Forbes's Plover

The Forbes's plover, or Forbes's banded plover, is a small wader that captivates with its distinctive appearance. The adult measures a modest 20 cm in length, and it boasts long wings and a tail that set it apart in flight from its small plover relatives, save for the similar three-banded plover.

Identification Tips

In breeding plumage, the Forbes's plover is adorned with dark brown upperparts, while its underparts are a stark white. Notably, it features two black breast bands, which are neatly separated by a white band, contributing to its common and scientific names. The head is strikingly patterned with a black crown, a brown forehead, and white supercilia that extend from above the eyes to meet at the nape. The face is a soft grey, and the eye ring and base of the black bill are a vivid red. Both sexes share this similar plumage.

Habitat

This species is a resident of west Africa, favoring inland rivers, pools, and lakes. It is particularly drawn to rocky uplands for nesting.

Distribution

The Forbes's plover is found throughout much of west Africa, where it remains resident year-round.

Behaviour

Outside the breeding season, these birds may venture to open grasslands, including areas frequented by humans such as airfields and golf courses. They are often observed alone but can occasionally be seen in small flocks.

Song & Calls

The Forbes's plover communicates with a distinctive piping "peee-oo" call, which can be heard across its habitat.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in the wet season, with the plover creating a simple scrape lined with small pebbles for its nest in the rocky uplands.

Similar Species

The three-banded plover, which inhabits eastern and southern Africa and Madagascar, is similar in size but can be distinguished by its white forehead and wingbar. The Forbes's plover is larger and darker than its relative.

Diet and Feeding

Forbes's plovers are visual hunters, preying on insects, worms, and other invertebrates to sustain themselves.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Forbes's plover as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species does not face any imminent risk of extinction.