Australian Pratincole

1. Long, pointed wings that extend well beyond the tail

2. Sandy-brown upperparts with white rump and chestnut belly band

3. Red bill with black tip in breeding adults

Australian Pratincoles feed mainly on insects, spiders, and centipedes, which they catch by running or making short flights. They are highly mobile, with movements closely tied to rainfall and water availability. Breeding pairs are monogamous, nesting in simple scrapes on bare or stony ground, often lined with small stones or plant material during September to December. Both parents share incubation and care for the young. The species is well-adapted to arid environments, possessing salt glands that allow them to drink saline water.

Australian Pratincoles are widespread across northern and eastern inland Australia, especially in open plains, grasslands, and stony or claypan country. They prefer areas with minimal vegetation and are often seen near water sources such as stock dams or claypans. During the breeding season (mainly September to December), they move southward, returning north after breeding. Outside the breeding season, many migrate to northern Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia. They are commonly spotted at dawn and dusk, often foraging on roads, airstrips, and paddocks.