Greater sand plover
Introduction: Greater sand plovers (Charadrius leschenaultii) were named after Jean Baptiste Leschenault de la Tour (1773-1828) a French collector and botanist. A mixed habitat of sand and mud, which often confines this species to tidal coastal lagoons is usual. A behavioural feature is to stand upright to expose a white abdomen whilst holding their wings horizontal, when either chasing or flying at a threatening bird.
Distribution: Walvis Bay Lagoon, Swakopmund.
Diet: Will sometimes run for long distances to attack prey which includes small crabs, insects and molluscs.
Description: Often confused with greater and lesser sand plovers who have black or grey-brown lores (the space between the bird's eye and bill) as opposed to white.
Breeding: Palearctic migrant breeder.
Size: 25cm.
Weight: 90g.
Wingspan: 60cm.
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