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Key information: The Northern Lapwing is an unmistakable wader that visits Cyprus in the winter. Its appearance is striking, with black and white plumage, iridescent green and purple back and a black wispy crest. Even in flight, it can easily be recognized by its rounded wing tips and slow wing beats. In the winter, it forms flocks on open land, particularly arable land, mudflats and wetlands.

Length: 28 – 31 cm

Habitat: Wetlands, farmland

When they can be seen: Autumn, winter, spring

What they eat: Invertebrates, seeds

In Cyprus: Can be seen at open farmland areas and wetlands such as Oroklini Lake, Akrotiri Peninsula and Kouklia Dam

Status: Winter visitor, passage migrant

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis