Smart Lapwings Utilize Cover to Conceal Themselves Brilliantly
Introduction:
Ground-nesting birds called lapwings have a unique way of hiding from predators, according to new research. Many ground-nesting species are declining due to changes in land management and high predator populations. The study found that lapwings can hide their eggs by using small variations in the terrain, making them invisible to predators. Understanding this could inform conservation efforts for this declining species.
Full Article: Smart Lapwings Utilize Cover to Conceal Themselves Brilliantly
Ground-Nesting Birds Use Camouflage to Hide from Predators
Ground-nesting birds called lapwings have a remarkable ability to use the shape of their nests and surroundings to hide from predators, according to new research. This finding is crucial for the conservation of these birds, as many ground-nesting species are facing population decline due to changes in land management and a rise in predator numbers.
The Challenge for Conservation
Conservation projects aimed at protecting ground-nesting birds often fail because their eggs and chicks are vulnerable to predation. This vulnerability is caused by the high populations of predators, such as foxes and crows, as well as changes in land management practices. To address this issue, the University of Exeter led a study to understand how lapwings, a ground-nesting bird species, are able to protect their nests from predators.
The Power of Camouflage
The research team used models that simulate the vision and viewing angles of various predators to assess the visibility of lapwing nests. The findings revealed that lapwings can effectively hide their eggs by using the variation in terrain to their advantage. Despite nesting in open fields, the small variations in the landscape make the nests nearly invisible to ground predators, such as foxes, from a distance of more than 1.5 metres away.
Lead author George Hancock explained, “Like children playing hide and seek, lapwings use cover to complement their camouflage. If a nest is properly concealed, even the keenest-eyed predator won’t be able to see it until they are almost on top of it. Camouflage by blending in with the surroundings is also an additional defense mechanism for the nests and eggs.”
Understanding Lapwing Nests
Collaborating with the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT), Hancock used smart phone 3D scanners to measure the shape and height of lapwing nests and their surroundings. Additionally, specialized cameras were used to assess camouflage from the perspective of the lapwing’s predators, which can see ultraviolet light.
The study revealed that lapwings strategically choose slightly elevated positions on uneven ground for their nests. This reduces the risk of flooding and enables them to have a better view of approaching predators, without standing out too much.
Conservation Efforts
Lapwing populations have declined by over 50% since the 1970s. The research findings have important implications for the conservation of this iconic bird species, which is an integral part of farmland ecosystems in the UK and beyond. Hancock suggests that providing habitats that align with lapwing camouflage is key in successful conservation efforts. By understanding “nature’s toolkit” and incorporating it alongside predator control, conservation managers can help lapwings breed more successfully.
A Call for Better Habitat Management
Hancock urges the importance of habitat variation for lapwings’ nesting choices. He acknowledges that the growth of intensive agricultural practices has limited their options for suitable nesting sites. While grazed fields do provide good habitat, it is essential to avoid overstocking with grazing animals. The study emphasizes that tilled fields can offer excellent camouflage for eggs, blending with the bare earth and rough geometry, but may pose risks for exposed chicks.
This research, funded by the Natural Environment Research Council and GWCT, highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to conserve lapwings and their habitats. By appreciating the unique strategies these birds employ to hide from predators, conservation efforts can be more effective in securing the breeding success of lapwings.
Summary: Smart Lapwings Utilize Cover to Conceal Themselves Brilliantly
A new study led by the University of Exeter has shown that lapwing birds are able to hide from predators by using the shape of their nests and surroundings. The research found that lapwings can conceal their eggs by making small variations in the terrain, making them invisible to ground predators. This information could help inform conservation efforts for the declining lapwing population.
Clever Lapwings FAQs
General Questions
What are lapwings?
Lapwings are medium-sized wading birds commonly found in temperate regions.
Why are lapwings considered clever?
Lapwings are known for their exceptional camouflage abilities and their use of covers to hide in plain sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do clever lapwings use covers to hide?
A: Clever lapwings utilize their environment to their advantage. They often create nests and lay their eggs in open areas with minimal vegetation. When predators approach, the lapwings distract them by pretending to have a broken wing, luring them away from the nest. This way, the eggs or chicks remain hidden and protected.
Q: What type of covers do lapwings use?
A: Lapwings commonly use natural covers such as leaves, sticks, and small rocks to conceal their nests. They arrange these materials in a way that blends seamlessly with their surroundings, making it difficult for predators to detect their presence.
Q: Are clever lapwings the only birds that use covers to hide?
A: While many bird species exhibit some form of camouflage or nesting behavior, lapwings are particularly renowned for their clever tactics. Other birds, such as plovers and killdeers, also employ similar techniques to protect their nests.
Q: How do lapwings benefit from hiding in plain sight?
A: By utilizing covers and camouflage, lapwings greatly reduce the risk of their nests being discovered by predators. This increases the chances of their offspring surviving and ensures the continuation of their species.
Q: Can humans easily spot a lapwing’s hidden nest?
A: Lapwings are highly adept at selecting hiding spots and arranging their covers effectively. This makes their nests quite challenging for humans to spot unless they are actively searching for them. Even keen observers might struggle to identify a lapwing’s concealed nest.
Conclusion
Understanding how clever lapwings use covers to hide in plain sight showcases their remarkable adaptation skills. Their ability to camouflage themselves and protect their nests from predators contributes to their survival in various habitats.
