Esacus recurvirostris
The Great Stone-curlew, *Esacus recurvirostris*, is a large, distinctive wader found in South and Southeast Asia, notable for its robust, upward-curved bill. Measuring approximately 49-55 cm in length with a wingspan around 90-100 cm and weighing 750-850 grams, it presents a sandy-brown plumage overall, perfectly camouflaged against its riverine and coastal habitats. Key field marks include its strikingly large, bright yellow eyes, a thick, bright yellow bill with a black, recurved tip, and p...
This species primarily inhabits open, large sandy or stony riverbeds, freshwater wetlands, and coastal estuaries with bare ground. It is typically found in lowland areas, rarely venturing above 500 meters in elevation.
Its diet primarily consists of large crustaceans (especially crabs), mollusks, insects, and small vertebrates like frogs, lizards, and fish. It forages by probing in soft substrates and visually hunting along water edges.
The Great Stone-curlew is primarily crepuscular and nocturnal, spending its days resting unobtrusively, often crouched or standing perfectly still, relying on its camouflage. Foraging occurs mainly at dawn, dusk, and throughout the night, with individuals wading in shallow water or patrolling mud...
The Great Stone-curlew's distribution spans across South and Southeast Asia, primarily inhabiting the lowlands. Its core breeding and year-round range encompasses the Indian Subcontinent, including India (particularly the northern and eastern plains), Bangladesh, and the lowland Terai region of N...
Least Concern
- The Great Stone-curlew possesses unusually large, yellow eyes, a key adaptation for its crepuscular and nocturnal hunting lifestyle. - Its scientific name, *recurvirostris*, literally means 'recurved bill,' aptly describing its most distinctive anatomical feature. - Despite its large size and p...