#ABArare - Northern Lapwing - Georgia

While leading a Georgia Southern University ornithology class field trip on Feb 6, Lauren Deaner found a Northern Lapwing (Code 4) at a small pond west of Kennedy Pond in Bulloch County, Georgia, less than 10 miles south of Statesboro. This is the southernmost record from this winter's invasion; Virginia previously held the title. (The all-time record holder for southernmost Northern Lapwing in the ABA Area is an individual that was near Lake Istokpoga, Florida from December 1997 to January 1998). Pending acceptance, this is a first state record.

photo by Lauren Deaner

To see this bird, take US 301 from either I-16 (go north) or Statesboro (go south). Turn east on GA 46, then right (south) on Hawkshaw Circle. Park at the east end of the road right before it turns into Alma Lane/CR 226. (Alma Lane is more heavily used and lacks good options for parking.) 

Northern Lapwing location shown by red arrow. Map courtesy of Cameron Cox.

Close-up map of where the Northern Lapwing has been seen. It was first detected at Location A (bottom middle of map). It's also been seen on the north side of the pond from Location B to the NE corner where it is hidden from view. Map courtesy of Cameron Cox.

On Feb 6, the Northern Lapwing was seen from about 9:30 AM until 3:20 PM, at which time it flew away from the pond. It was present again on the morning of Feb 7 when the first birders arrrived at 7:20 AM.

There have been other recent discoveries of lapwings on the East Coast, with sightings coming from Rhode Island and Maryland. So keep looking. There are almost certainly more waiting to be found.

No word yet from Ms. Deaner if this will be on the ornithology exam.