Wattled lapwing

Description

The plumage is a greyish brown, whilst its flight feathers, tail and throat are black. It has a large white patch on the forehead with a blackish frame. The rest of the head and neck are spotted black. It has a characteristic hanging wattle, which is yellow with a red upper border, on both sides of the bill, which is also yellow with a black tip. Its legs are yellow and very long. 

Ethology

It is a diurnal bird and more solitary than other lapwings. They usually live only in pairs or in small groups. They are monogamous and the male defends its territory forcefully from intruders, mainly other lapwings. The nest consists of a shallow depression situated in pasture or on the ground. The female usually lays 2-4 eggs which are incubated by both sexes for 28-32 days. 

Interesting facts

It is classified as a low-concern species, but nevertheless it is facing threats from loss of habitat in South Africa due to deforestation. It is hunted and sold in traditional medicine markets in Nigeria.