Image via Macaulay Library
White-crowned Lapwing
- Scientific name
- Vanellus albiceps
- Family
- Charadriidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The White-crowned Lapwing, known scientifically as Vanellus albiceps, is a distinct wader within the Charadriidae family, native to tropical sub-Saharan Africa. It was first formally described by the naturalist John Gould in 1834, based on specimens collected in the Gambia. Its evolution has favored a riverside habitat, where it is uniquely adapted to thrive along the sandbanks of major river systems like the Niger and the Nile.
The species is visually striking, characterized by its prominent yellow facial wattles and a distinct white crown that contrasts sharply with its darker plumage. Its physical form is defined by broad wings for agile flight and a pointed tail, functional traits that assist in its maneuverability over water. Within the natural world, it is highly regarded by ornithologists for its vigilant, protective behavior and its role as a key indicator species of healthy, undisturbed riverine ecosystems.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About White-crowned Lapwing
White-crowned Lapwing is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track White-crowned Lapwing on collecto.rs?
White-crowned Lapwing doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of White-crowned Lapwing?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the White-crowned Lapwing catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for White-crowned Lapwing is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
