Southern Lapwing

Description:

This is a Plover that was recently report in Costa Rica, first time in 1997, this specimen was seen in arenal volcano area where 9 years ago I saw it for my first time, in this place I found also the nest and chicks that were prey by a Gray Hawk. The southtern lapwing is the only crested wader in South America. It is 32 to 38 cm in length and weighs approximately 250 to 425 g. The upperparts are mainly brownish grey, with a bronze glossing on the shoulders. The head is particularly striking; mainly grey with a black forehead and throat patch extending onto the black breast. A white border separates the black of the face from the grey of the head and crest. The rest of the underparts are white, and the eye ring, legs and most of the bill are pink. It is equipped with red bony extensions under the wings (spurs clearly seen in this picture) , used to intimidate foes and fight birds of prey.

Habitat:

Lowlands from South to Central America