Balcony Birding: Red-Wattled Lapwing

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““The presence of a single bird can change everything for one who appreciates them.”

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Red-Wattled Lapwing | Vanellus Indicus

This one cannot be missed. It announces its presence with a loud, screeching call that spells urgency; like someone being chased & calling for help! It does irritate a lot of people!

Red-Wattled Lapwings are large waders and belong to the Charadriidae family comprising of plovers, dotterels and lapwings.

Most Lapwings have a distinct wattle, resulting in their name. It is often called the “Whistle Blower” bird, as it loud calls warn all other animals of approaching danger.

They are said to indulge in midnight snacking and are especially active during full moon.

Fun facts
Lapwing eggs are believed to have medicinal properties, and are used in traditional Indian Folk Medicine for the treatment of Asthma and Typhoid.

In India, locals believe that the bird sleeps on its back, with its feet pointing up – as if supporting the sky. (Refer to a metaphor in Hindi “टिटहरी से आसमान थम जायेगा “)

For a few days flocks of Red-Wattled Lapwing were seen (probably juveniles)

Rajasthani farmers believe to this day, that laying of eggs by the lapwing on high ground as well as hatching of the Lapwing eggs during early summer is an indication of good rains during the monsoons.

From our safari at Ranthambore National Park

The Bhils of Malwa believe that the if the Red-Wattled Lapwings laid eggs in the dry beds of streams it is a forewarning of delayed rains or droughts. On the other hand if eggs are laid on the banks it is an indication of normal rains.

The color of the eggs and chicks are similar to the ground color making it a natural camouflage. The lapwing keeps the eggs cool with their belly soaking behavior (wetting their stomach feathers in water)

It’s a belief that the lapwing uses a paras stone to break open its eggs….. wow!

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Red Wattled Lapwings at North-South Block of Rashtrapati Bhawan

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Do watch out for the next post on another species from my #BalconyBirdingList

Posts shared so far on:

1. Rosy Starlings
2. Alexandrine Parakeet
3. Rose-Ringed Parakeet
4. Plum Headed Parakeet
5. Indian Spot-Billed Duck
6. Yellow-Footed Green Pigeon
7. Black-Winged Stilt
8. Indian Peafowl
9. Indian Purple Sunbird
10. Green Bee-Eater
11. Indian Silverbill
12. Black-Headed Ibis
13. Red-Naped Ibis
14. Glossy Ibis
15. Little Swift
16. Red-Wattled Lapwing

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The Soul Is Here For It’s Own Joy!
Monika Ohson | TravelerInMe