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.
