Stone-curlew - Burhinus oedicnemus

The stone-curlew is a crow-sized bird with a large head, long yellow legs and relatively long wings and tail. It is not related to curlews and gets its name from its curlew-like call.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required in support of any record due to the rarity of the species in our area.

A bird of dry, open places with bare, stony ground or very short vegetation.

Spring and summer. Two medium-sized eggs are laid from April onwards, usually two days apart

Active at night, its large yellow eyes enable it to locate food when it is dark. 

Infrequent summer visitor to southern England and East Anglia. Its UK strongholds are in Wiltshire, around Salisbury Plain, and the Brecks, Norfolk.

Uncommon in Leicestershire and Rutland.