A large, distinctive ground-dwelling shorebird native to Australia and parts of New Guinea, characterized by a prominent black crown and yellow face wattles.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Diverse open landscapes including grasslands, agricultural fields, urban parks, sports fields, and wetland margins across Australia and southern New Guinea
Ecological Role
Important ecosystem regulator through insectivorous diet, pest control in agricultural landscapes, and indicator of grassland ecosystem health
Morphology
SKIN COATPredominantly white plumage with black wing coverts and crown, sharp wing spurs used for territorial defense
LIMBS WINGSLong, powerful legs adapted for ground foraging, broad wings with white and black plumage pattern
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes, prominent black crown, distinctive yellow facial wattles extending from cheeks
BODY STRUCTURELarge plover-like bird, approximately 35-38 cm in length, weighing 200-350 g, with robust body and long legs
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Toby Hudson
