Vanellus resplendens
The Andean Lapwing (*Vanellus resplendens*) is a striking shorebird of the high Andes, characterized by its iridescent bronze-green back, contrasting with a grey head, white belly, and black primary flight feathers. Measuring 32-33 cm (12.5-13 in) in length with a weight range of 193-296 g, its most distinctive field marks are its bright red eye-ring, vibrant red legs, and a short reddish bill tipped in black. Taxonomically, it belongs to the Charadriiformes order and Charadriidae family, clo...
This lapwing primarily inhabits high-altitude montane grasslands, puna, páramo, and bofedales (high-altitude wetlands) near lakes and rivers, typically found between 3,000 and 5,000 meters (9,800-16,400 ft) above sea level.
Their diet consists mainly of various terrestrial invertebrates, including insects (beetles, grasshoppers, larvae), earthworms, and other small arthropods, foraged by pecking and probing the ground.
Andean Lapwings are diurnal and often observed foraging in pairs or small flocks on open ground, walking steadily and pecking at the substrate, sometimes probing for prey. During the breeding season, they become highly territorial, performing elaborate aerial displays with deep wing beats and lou...
The Andean Lapwing is endemic to the high Andes of South America, with its primary distribution stretching from south-central Ecuador, through Peru and Bolivia, into northern Chile and northwestern Argentina. It is predominantly a resident species, occupying its high-altitude breeding grounds yea...
Least Concern
- The Andean Lapwing is one of the highest-dwelling shorebirds in the world, regularly found at elevations exceeding 4,500 meters (14,760 ft). - Its iridescent bronze-green back plumage is particularly striking in direct sunlight, providing cryptic camouflage against the high-Andean landscape. - ...