VAN BOEKEL W (2012) Observations on a small breeding colony of Black-winged Stilts Himantopus himanpus in the northern Netherlands in 2011. LIMOSA 85 (2): 60-67.
In 2011, four pairs of Black-winged Stilts formed a breeding
colony in newly created marshlands in the nature reserve
De Onlanden in the province of Drenthe. These breeding attempts,
the first in this province for 75 years, were monitored
closely. Differences in plumage between the sexes in combination
with differences in shape and extent of the black cap
of the birds enabled recognition of individuals and pairs. The
Stilts built their nests close to each other. All nests were low
platforms made of plant material, located in or at the edge
of shallow water, usually close to some vegetation. Two pairs
made two and three breeding attempts respectively, which
all failed. The other two pairs made one attempt each, of
which only one was successful with three chicks hatched after
c. 24 days of incubation. Two chicks disappeared within a
few days, most likely due to poor weather (low temperatures
and much rain). The remaining chick fledged after 40 days,
which is a long period compared to the 28 days given in literature.
Its growth was probably retarded by the cold and
rainy weather. Parental care was given mainly by the male;
the female disappeared from the area two weeks before the
chick was fully grown.
Contrary to literature statements, the Black-winged Stilts generally
startet incubating continuously shortly after the first
egg was produced. Also for this behaviour, the poor weather
conditions might have been a reason. Apparently undescribed
previously, the black colour of the cap and neck of the
adult stilts slowly disappeared during the breeding season.
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