Burhinus indicus
The Indian Stone-curlew, *Burhinus indicus*, is a medium-sized, largely nocturnal wader belonging to the family Burhinidae, distinguishable by its cryptic plumage and striking ocular features. Measuring approximately 40-44 cm (16-17 inches) in length with a wingspan around 77-85 cm (30-33 inches) and weighing 320-400 grams (11-14 oz), its plumage is an intricate mosaic of sandy-brown, grey, and black streaks, providing superb camouflage against dry, stony terrain. Distinctive field marks incl...
Primarily found in dry, open habitats such as scrubland, open woodlands, thorny bushes, fallow lands, stony plains, and sometimes cultivated fields, generally at low to moderate elevations.
Feeds primarily on insects (crickets, beetles, grasshoppers) and other invertebrates, as well as small vertebrates like lizards, frogs, and rodents, caught by stalking and sudden lunges on the ground.
The Indian Stone-curlew is predominantly crepuscular and nocturnal, spending its days crouched motionless, perfectly camouflaged, relying on its cryptic plumage to avoid detection. At dusk, it becomes active, embarking on foraging expeditions with a characteristic slow, deliberate gait, intersper...
The Indian Stone-curlew is a resident species primarily distributed across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends throughout India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, and parts of mainland Southeast Asia including Cambodia a...
Least Concern
- The Indian Stone-curlew was only recognized as a full species in 2005, having previously been considered a subspecies of the Eurasian Stone-curlew. - Its large, luminous yellow eyes are a key adaptation for its predominantly nocturnal hunting lifestyle, allowing it to spot prey in very low ligh...