The Northern Lapwing, a bird in the plover family, is common across temperate Europe and Asia and an occasional vagrant to North America. It is migratory over most of its extensive range, wintering in the south as far as north Africa, northern India and China. It migrates mainly by day, often in large flocks. Lowland breeders in westernmost areas of Europe are resident.
The name lapwing comes from the 'lapping' sound that its wings make, or the flapping flight, while peewit describes the bird's shrill call. This is a vocal bird in the breeding season, with constant calling as the crazed tumbling display flight is performed by the male.
Northern Lapwings have a fairly large natural range. Vagrant birds are sometimes found in the eastern United States or Caribbean. The species has a conservation status of Least Concern as of July 2014.
The Northern Lapwing, with its iridescent plumage and distinctive crest, is a fascinating bird that captures the imagination of bird lovers across the globe. A member of the plover family, this bird is a familiar sight across temperate Europe and Asia and occasionally makes its... Read more »
