About Glareola pratincola (Linnaeus, 1766)
Nomenclature and Body Size
Glareola pratincola, commonly known as the collared pratincole, measures 24–28 cm (9.4–11.0 in) in length, with a wingspan of 60–70 cm (24–28 in).
Morphological Adaptations
This species has short legs, long pointed wings, a long forked tail, and a short bill, a set of traits adapted for feeding while in flight.
Coloration
Its back and head are brown, its wings are brown with darker flight feathers, its belly is white, and its underwings are chestnut, which appear dark when viewed from below.
Species Identification Notes
Close, clear views are required to tell this species apart from other pratincoles that may appear within its range, such as the black-winged pratincole and the oriental pratincole.
Differentiation from Oriental Pratincole
The oriental pratincole also has chestnut underwings, but has a shorter tail than the collared pratincole.
Habitat and Feeding Behavior
The collared pratincole inhabits open country, and is often spotted near water during the evening, where it hawks for insects.
Native Range
It occurs in the warmer regions of Europe, southwest Asia, and Africa.
Migratory Patterns
This is a migratory species that winters in tropical Africa, and it is rare in areas north of its breeding range.
Vagrant Records
It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Brazil and Barbados.
