The black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is a striking wading bird known for its long, slender pink legs and contrasting black-and-white plumage. Found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia, this bird is a true master of the water’s edge.
With a diet consisting of insects, crustaceans, and small fish, the black-winged stilt forages by probing the shallow waters with its needle-like bill. Its long legs allow it to wade through deeper waters than many other shorebirds, giving it a competitive advantage.
During the breeding season, black-winged stilts build simple ground nests in colonies, often in open wetlands. Both parents share incubation duties and fiercely protect their chicks from predators.
Although not currently endangered, these birds are vulnerable to habitat loss due to wetland drainage, pollution, and climate change. Protecting wetlands and ensuring clean water sources are vital to preserving this elegant species.