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The water thick-knee is a nocturnal bird found in sub-Saharan Africa that lives near freshwater. It forages for insects, crustaceans, and small vertebrates up to 1 km from water, and its diet can include a wide range of invertebrates and small vertebrates. It nests in a simple scrape on the ground and forms a unique symbiotic relationship with Nile crocodiles, where the birds act as sentries for the crocodiles' nests.
Habitat and diet
Habitat: Found near rivers, lakes, estuaries, and beaches in sub-Saharan Africa.
Nocturnal behavior: Active at dawn, dusk, and night, though they can be seen during the day.
Foraging: Forages on the ground, sometimes up to a kilometer away from water.
Diet: Primarily feeds on insects, crustaceans (like crabs), and mollusks (like snails), but also eats frogs, tadpoles, and other small vertebrates.
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Breeding and nesting
Nesting: Builds a simple scrape in the ground, often near rocks or other structures for camouflage.
Eggs: Lays 1-3 sandy-yellow eggs, which both parents incubate for 22-25 days.
Parental care: Both parents are responsible for brooding the eggs and feeding the young, which fledge at around two months.
Symbiotic relationship with Nile crocodiles
Mutualism: Often nests adjacent to or even on top of Nile crocodile nests.
"Sentry" duty: The loud and energetic thick-knees act as sentries, harassing and pecking at potential nest raiders.
Crocodile protection: If the thick-knees cannot drive off the intruder, their calls can alert the mother crocodile, which then protects its nest.
Physical characteristics
Appearance: A terrestrial wading bird with large yellow eyes, a stout bill, and thick ankles.
Camouflage: Has cryptically colored plumage that blends in with sandy and rocky environments.
Size: Grows to about 38-41 cm in length and weighs around 440g.
