Hesperoburhinus bistriatus
The Double-striped Thick-knee, *Hesperoburhinus bistriatus*, is a distinctive and enigmatic ground-dwelling bird found across Central and northern South America. Measuring approximately 46-50 cm (18-20 in) in length and weighing between 650-800g, it possesses a cryptic plumage of streaky brown and grey upperparts that blend seamlessly with its dry grassland habitats. Its most striking field marks are the prominent black and white stripes above and below its large, luminous yellow eyes, and it...
Found in open, dry habitats such as savannas, grasslands, pastures, agricultural fields, and arid scrublands, typically at elevations from sea level up to 2000 meters.
Mainly insectivorous, consuming a variety of large insects like beetles, grasshoppers, and crickets, but also preys on scorpions, spiders, small lizards, frogs, and occasionally small rodents or eggs.
Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, the Double-striped Thick-knee spends its days camouflaged and largely inactive, often hunkering down in sparse cover. At dusk, it becomes active, embarking on slow, deliberate foraging walks, punctuated by sudden dashes to capture prey. These birds are general...
The Double-striped Thick-knee is a widespread resident species found from southern Mexico, extending through all of Central America, and into northern South America. Its breeding range covers the Pacific and Caribbean lowlands and interior plains of Mexico (from Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas), so...
Least Concern
- The 'thick-knee' in its name refers to the prominent, swollen intertarsal joints on its yellow legs, not its actual knees. - Despite their resemblance to shorebirds, Double-striped Thick-knees prefer dry, open country far from water, challenging typical categorizations. - Their massive yellow e...