Burhinus senegalensis (Swainson, 1837)

General Size

Senegal thick-knees are medium-large wading birds.

Distinctive Physical Features

They have strong black-and-yellow bills, large yellow eyes that give them a reptilian appearance, and cryptic plumage.

Similarity to Eurasian Stone-curlew

They are similar in appearance to the Eurasian stone-curlew, which winters in Africa, but are slightly smaller.

Field Identification Marks

Compared to the Eurasian (European) species, the Senegal thick-knee can be distinguished by its long dark bill, a single black bar on the folded wing, and a darker cheek stripe.

Flight Appearance

In flight, the Senegal thick-knee is striking, with a broad white wing bar.

Breeding Range

This species is a resident breeder in Africa, occurring between the Sahara and the equator, as well as in the Nile valley.

Habitat Preferences

Senegal thick-knees prefer dry open habitats with some bare ground, preferably located near water.

Reproduction

They lay two blotchy light brown eggs in a scrape on the ground.

Activity and Vocalization

They are most active at dawn and dusk, and their song is a loud repetitive pi-pi-pi-pi-pi-pi-pi.

Diet

Their diet consists of insects, crustaceans, other invertebrates, and other small prey.