Least Concern

Length about 35–37 cm; wingspan 70–75 cm; weight ~150–200 g. Medium-sized lapwing with a striking black-and-white head pattern, greyish-brown back, and long legs.

Mostly resident across South and Southeast Asia. Local movements may occur along rivers depending on water levels and breeding conditions.

Non-migratory; occasional local dispersal occurs in response to floods or habitat changes.

Typically March to June, coinciding with low river levels that expose sandy banks for nesting. Males perform displays to attract females.

Nests on open sandy or gravelly riverbanks, forming shallow scrapes lined with small pebbles or vegetation. Clutch size is usually 3–4 eggs. Both parents incubate and protect the nest.

Prefers fast-flowing rivers, streams, and adjacent sand/gravel banks. Often found in less vegetated riverine areas, avoiding dense forests.

Feeds mainly on insects, small crustaceans, worms, and mollusks, foraging along riverbanks and shallow waters. Uses sight to pick prey from sand or shallow water.