The Lapwing ‘Vanellus vanellus’

Affectionately known as the farmers friend, the handsome lapwing is a favourite for their penchant for guzzling pests. These ground nesting birds have sadly suffered a 55% decline in numbers in recent years, most likely due to intensified farming and changes in land management. This has led to them being listed as red under the birds of conservation concern.

The collective noun for lapwings is a deceit, this probably comes from their behaviour of pretending their nest is elsewhere if they’re being watched by a predator, hence they are deceitful!

Also known as the peewit for their distinctive call, this led to the birds being associated with the legend of the seven whistlers – seven birds flying together by night, whose cries presaged disaster. This call was said to cry “bewitched, bewitched” and so bring evil to those who heard it.

Conservation Status - Red. UK breeding birds 97,500.

The Details…

Printed on lovely thick soft white cotton paper with a 0.5 inch border. Each print is signed and numbered by the artist.

Size: Image - 6 x 6 inches. Size with border - 7 x 7 inches.

This is a limited edition run of 25.

Copyright is with the artist Kerry Jane