Scientific Name: Vanellus indicus
Malay Name: Ceriwit Duit-duit
Chinese Name: 肉垂麦鸡
Range:
Widespread. Turkey, Iraq, Arabian Peninsula, Iran, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Indian subcontinent, South-west China and throughout South-east Asia.
Taxonomy:
Polytypic. Subspecies are: aigneri, indicus, lankae, atronuchalis.
Local Subspecies: atronuchalis
Size: 31.5-35 cm
Identification:
Black head and upper breast, red-bill with black tip, red facial skin, and white patch on ear coverts. Sandy greyish-brown upperparts with narrow white band across mantle, white underparts and long yellow legs.
Similar looking species: Grey-headed Lapwing
Habitat: Marshes, cultivated land, grassland, wasteland, margin of lakes, ponds and large rivers.
Behaviour/Ecology: Usually found in pairs or family parties. Sharp, incessant vocalization when alarmed.
Local Status: Uncommon resident
Conservation Status: Least Concern (BirdLife International 2016)
Location:
Photos:
External Links:
Conservation Status: IUCN Red List Page
Photos: Oriental Bird Images
Sound Recordings: xeno-canto Link
Wikipedia Entry: Wikipedia Link
References:
BirdLife International. (2016). Vanellus indicus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016. Downloaded on 2 September 2021
Robson, C. (2008). A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia. New Holland Publishers.