Stone-curlew
Burhinus oedicnemus
Length 41cm

Rare and secretive breeding bird, present from March to September and found only in S and E England from Wiltshire to Norfolk. Can sometimes be seen during day but most active at dusk and throughout night when strange, curlew-like wailing calls indicate the species' presence. Favours large, open fields, often on chalk downs, where lack of hedges gives uninterrupted view of terrain. Seen at close range, has sandy brown plumage, yellow legs, black-tipped yellow bill and large yellow eyes. Dark wings and white wingbars most apparent in flight. Always a challenge to find, even among short vegetation.