Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus L 38-45cm. Secretive, dry-country wader best known for its eerie calls. Well camouflaged in dry grassland and hard to spot. In flight, looks long-winged and gull-like, with striking black and white pattern on upperwing. Sexes are similar. Adult has streaked sandy brown plumage; black and white wingbars can be seen in standing birds. Has yellow legs, black-tipped yellow bill and large yellow eyes. Juvenile is similar to adult but markings are less distinctive. Voice Utters strange, curlew-like wails at dusk and throughout night. Status Scarce migrant visitor. Nests on chalk downs, Breckland heaths and suitably managed arable farmland.
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