Southern Lapwing

Grayish-brown crown and back, black breastplate, white belly, and distinctive red eyes with red facial skin and pinkish legs. Sexes are similar in appearance.

Prominent black crest, black breast patch, red eyes and bill base, red wing spurs visible in flight, and gray-brown upperparts.

Length: 32-38 cm, Wingspan: approx. 70-80 cm, Weight: 250-425 g

A loud, harsh, metallic, and repetitive alarm call, often described as 'krree-uk' or 'ter-witt', frequently given when disturbed.

Mainly insects, earthworms, and other small invertebrates, often foraging by walking and pecking in short bursts.

Open country, grasslands, agricultural fields, pastures, wetlands, and urban lawns or golf courses.

Mostly resident, though some populations may make local movements in response to seasonal rainfall or temperature changes.

A ground scrape in open areas lined with sparse vegetation, clutch size of 2-4 eggs, with both parents fiercely defending the nest against intruders.

Other lapwings such as the Andean Lapwing, which has a more restricted high-altitude range and different facial markings.

Acts as an important predator of agricultural pests like insects and grubs, and serves as an alert system for other animals due to its loud alarm calls.

Least Concern, with an increasing population trend and high adaptability to human-altered landscapes.

Look and listen for them in open grassy areas, sports fields, and near water bodies; they are very vocal and will aggressively dive-bomb intruders near their nests.

The Southern Lapwing is the national bird of Uruguay and is known for its fearless defense of its nesting territory against much larger animals, including humans and cattle.