The Oriental Pratincole (Glareola maldivarum), an extraordinary and enchanting bird, has won the hearts of bird lovers all over the world. Commonly found in open habitats like grasslands and wetlands, these captivating creatures hold a special place in Nepal. In this article, we will take a closer look at the unique features of the Oriental Pratincole, delve into their natural surroundings, and discuss their significance in Nepal.
Key Features of Oriental Pratincoles
Often referred to as the Grasshopper-bird or Swallow-plover, the Oriental Pratincole is a petite wading bird that is a member of the Glareolidae family. Boasting remarkable attributes that are sure to leave a lasting impact, this species displays a slim body, elongated wings, and a split tail. Their peculiar appearance creates a magnificent amalgamation of earthly and aerial elegance.
Adults exhibit brownish-grey upperparts with delicate black streaks, white throats and underparts, and reddish-brown underwing coverts. On the other hand, juveniles possess a nearly identical appearance but with pale tips on their feathers. The primary difference between male and female Oriental Pratincoles can be seen in the females' more rounded wings.
The Living Space of the Oriental Pratincole
Oriental Pratincoles flourish in vast open spaces close to water sources such as grasslands, swamps, riverbanks, sandbars, fields, and coastal mudflats. These dynamic birds primarily feed on insects, showcasing incredible agility both on land and in flight. They use their razor-sharp beaks to catch insects like grasshoppers and beetles mid-flight or snatch them from the ground while sprinting.
During mating season, which generally takes place between March and August based on their geographical location, Oriental Pratincoles create plain nest scrapes on the ground near areas with sparse vegetation. Within these comfy nests, they lay two to three eggs that are cryptically colored to shield them from predators.
The Presence of Oriental Pratincoles in Nepal
The Oriental Pratincole also calls Nepal home, a country blessed with a wealth of biodiversity. These intriguing birds can be found in the Terai region of Nepal, an area distinguished by extensive grasslands and wetlands that provide an ideal habitat for the species. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and Chitwan National Park are two prime spots in Nepal where birdwatchers and nature lovers can glimpse these quick creatures.
As migratory birds, Oriental Pratincoles travel across various regions throughout the year. They breed in parts of Central Asia, China, and India before flying south to countries like Nepal during the winter months.
In summary, the Oriental Pratincole (Glareola maldivarum) is a mesmerizing bird species with a one-of-a-kind presence in Nepal. Their striking features and nimbleness make them genuinely fascinating creatures to observe and treasure. As we continue to uncover more about different bird species worldwide, let's not forget to appreciate and safeguard the vast biodiversity that makes our planet truly exceptional.