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The
page deals with Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus), and Spotted Redshank
(Tringa erythropus). Every year both species appear here for breeding
purpose.
The
subsequent images were taken at the National Park Neusiedlersee
Seewinkel which is located in the south eastern corner of Austria.
Photos of this page were taken in 2003 and 2005.
Lapwings
are Pigeon sized birds. Both genders wear the typical hood feathers
on their head. Cock's decoration is a bit longer than hen's.
Lapwings
appear very early in their breeding districts. Often already in
the second half of February. They
prefer meadows and fields in wet areas.
Because
of the early brooding, late snow falls may happen. Lapwings then
keep sitting on their eggs and are snowed in. They easily may start
a new brood in case of nest devastation.
--o--
Spotted Redshanks are a bit larger than regular Redshanks. They
have longer legs and also a longer and very spiky bill shape. When
flying, legs overhang the tail.
Spotted
Redshanks search for prey by picking and poking, sometimes they
make a short sprint. Spotted Redshanks may swim and sometimes they
dive head and neck totally under water. Landing on water is possible
for them.
In
case of raptor attacks, Spotted Redshanks may also dive in order
to abscond. A behavior, which in most cases is successful.
The
flat breeding hollow is located on the open ground. Sometimes it
is padded with leafs and feathers. Breeding and guiding the cubs
is obligation of the male bird. The female leaves the nest about
one week before hatch out.
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