The remarkable Great Stone-curlew (Esacus recurvirostris), also referred to as the Great Thick-knee, is a captivating bird that draws the attention of birdwatchers and nature lovers. This extraordinary species has a unique look, intriguing behaviors, and a special presence in Nepal. The French naturalist Georges Cuvier first described it formally in 1829, giving it the binomial name Oedicnemus recurvirostris. Today, it belongs to the Esacus genus, introduced by French naturalist René Lesson in 1831. The Great Stone-curlew has no recognized subspecies.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at what makes the Great Stone-curlew so exceptional and discuss its life in Nepal.
A One-of-a-Kind Appearance
The Great Stone-curlew is a sizeable wading bird from the Burhinidae family. Its appearance is striking, with an impressive wingspan of up to 86 cm and an unmistakably large yellow eye perfect for its nocturnal lifestyle. This bird stands out with its long legs, powerful recurved bill, and patterned brown plumage that blends perfectly into its favored sandy or rocky surroundings.
Fascinating Behaviors
The Great Stone-curlew is a night owl that scours riverbanks and shorelines for food. Its meals usually include crabs, other crustaceans, insects, mollusks, and small fish. With its specialized bill, this amazing bird can accurately detect and catch prey in low-light situations – quite an incredible talent.
Great Stone-curlews have noteworthy nesting habits too. Unlike many other birds that build intricate nests in trees or bushes, they simply lay their speckled eggs directly on open ground where they remain hidden from predators.
Living in Nepal
Nepal's varied landscapes provide plenty of opportunities to spot unique wildlife like the Great Stone-curlew. Although not common in most areas of the country, this species can be spotted in certain regions along Nepal's terai lowlands and river banks. Chitwan National Park and Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve are prime hotspots to catch a glimpse of this elusive bird.
Conservation efforts in Nepal, such as preserving habitats, are essential to ensure the Great Stone-curlew's survival. As a result, these birds continue to thrive within protected locations, offering birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts the chance to observe and admire them.
In Conclusion
The Great Stone-curlew captivates both casual birdwatchers and experienced ornithologists. Its distinct appearance, engaging habits, and presence in Nepal make it a fascinating subject for exploration and research. By uncovering more about this extraordinary species and safeguarding its habitats, we can hope that it continues to enchant people in Nepal for generations to come.