Migrating lapwings
Photos: Arne Ader
Translation: Liis
Lapwings migrating
Lapwing Kiivitaja Vanellus vanellus
The lapwing flocks or groups passing on migration are always seen in open areas: fields, coastal meadows.
The lapwings that have nested in Estonia have already left long ago; the travellers arriving now are here for some time, moving on again with suitable winds and weather – the migration proceeds in waves.
Looking at the flock from a distance it seems that we have to do with black-white patterned birds. The back plumage of lapwings has a metallic bluish-green sheen, the gump is cinnamon brown, belly white and breast black. Seen from far off all have rather similar plumage – the crest on the females’ head is a little smaller and the throat patch is not as uniformly black as that of the male birds. The throat of juveniles is quite pale.
Lapwing
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