Glareola lactea
The Small Pratincole (Glareola lactea) is a diminutive and elegant shorebird, measuring approximately 16.5-18.5 cm (6.5-7.3 in) in length with a wingspan of about 40-45 cm (15.7-17.7 in) and weighing 30-50 grams. Its plumage is characterized by a pale, sandy-brown upperparts and a strikingly white underbelly, earning it the scientific epithet "lactea" (milky). Distinctive field marks include its small size, long, pointed wings with black primary tips contrasting with a white trailing edge, a ...
Primarily inhabits open, sparsely vegetated riverine habitats, including wide sandy or shingle riverbeds, sandbanks, and exposed mudflats, typically at low elevations.
Primarily consumes a variety of insects, including flies, beetles, moths, and crickets, caught almost exclusively on the wing through agile aerial hawking.
Small Pratincoles exhibit a crepuscular and diurnal activity pattern, often being most active at dawn and dusk, though they can forage throughout the day. They are aerial insectivores, displaying highly agile, tern-like flight as they hawk insects on the wing, sometimes dipping low over water or ...
The Small Pratincole has a widespread distribution across South and Southeast Asia, primarily associated with major river systems. Its breeding range encompasses countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. While many populations...
Least Concern
- The Small Pratincole is the smallest species within the pratincole family, making its aerial acrobatics even more impressive. - Its species name 'lactea' is Latin for 'milky', referring to its distinctive pale, whitish plumage. - Unlike most shorebirds, it spends a significant amount of time ca...