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Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)
The Lapwing is the most widespread of our breeding waders and a species associated with a wide range of open country habitats. These familiar birds mark the changing of the seasons; the arrival of migrating flocks signal the onset of cold winter weather and the tumbling display flight and ‘peewit’ call note the arrival of spring.
Lapwings from the western part of continental Europe make migratory movements in early winter, with birds moving west and south to reach areas with a mild, maritime climate. Many of these birds reach Britain and Ireland from late September through into November. Some of the earliest individuals to reach our shores will carry out their annual moult here but most moult before they cross the North Sea. The flocks wintering here may number many hundreds or even thousands of birds, the numbers influenced by weather conditions on the Continent. In fact, further waves of birds may reach us if the winter weather is particularly cruel.
Cold weather, and frosty conditions in particular, see birds relocate from farmland and onto estuarine sites, where food remains accessible. Birds may also leave Britain and Ireland altogether if things get really bad, to seek out better conditions in western France and Spain.
Taken @ Kidwelly
Press L for larger view
Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)
The Lapwing is the most widespread of our breeding waders and a species associated with a wide range of open country habitats. These familiar birds mark the changing of the seasons; the arrival of migrating flocks signal the onset of cold winter weather and the tumbling display flight and ‘peewit’ call note the arrival of spring.
Lapwings from the western part of continental Europe make migratory movements in early winter, with birds moving west and south to reach areas with a mild, maritime climate. Many of these birds reach Britain and Ireland from late September through into November. Some of the earliest individuals to reach our shores will carry out their annual moult here but most moult before they cross the North Sea. The flocks wintering here may number many hundreds or even thousands of birds, the numbers influenced by weather conditions on the Continent. In fact, further waves of birds may reach us if the winter weather is particularly cruel.
Cold weather, and frosty conditions in particular, see birds relocate from farmland and onto estuarine sites, where food remains accessible. Birds may also leave Britain and Ireland altogether if things get really bad, to seek out better conditions in western France and Spain.
Taken @ Kidwelly
Press L for larger view