Madagascar Pratincole

The Madagascar pratincole, scientific name Glareola ocularis, is a distinctive bird belonging to the family Glareolidae. It is recognized by its elegant form and agile flight.

Identification Tips

This species exhibits a sleek body with long pointed wings and a short tail. Its plumage is generally brownish-grey on the upperparts, with a lighter underbelly. The pratincole's face is marked by a notable white stripe above the eye, giving it a striking appearance.

Habitat

The Madagascar pratincole is found in a variety of wetland habitats, including subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grasslands, rivers, freshwater lakes, rocky shores, and intertidal marshes.

Distribution

This bird has a range that includes Comoros, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Somalia, and Tanzania. It is also a possible resident of Mauritius and Réunion. During the winter, it migrates to the coast of East Africa.

Behaviour

The Madagascar pratincole is known for its graceful flight and is often seen gliding over its wetland habitats in search of food.

Breeding

Breeding season for this species occurs from October to December, with a peak in November. During this time, they engage in nesting and rearing their young.

Conservation Status

The Madagascar pratincole is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. The primary threat facing this species is habitat loss.