Rhodesia Philately: Wattle Plover (Vanellus senegallus)

The Wattle Plover (Vanellus senegallus) is a large lapwing, a group of largish waders in the family Charadriidae. It is a resident breeder in most of sub-Saharan Africa outside the rainforests, although it has seasonal movements.

“The yellow-orange wattles distinguish this from other plovers. The rather plaintive call is also distinctive. During the breeding season the adults become very agitated if the nest or chicks are approached and will make numerous diving attacks on the intruder. The birds are found near water, particularly where marshy conditions exist, and may be seen picking up insects from the mud. They are found throughout Rhodesia above 3,000 ft. and may extend to lower altitudes.”

Stamps & Postal Products

1971 Birds of Rhodesia – 25c Wattled Plover

References