The Unexpected Return of the Southern Lapwing

Southern Lapwing 2025

A bird once thought lost to the Barbadian landscape has made an unexpected reappearance.  On September 14th, Dr. John Webster observed a Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis) in the parish of St. Lucy—marking a thrilling moment for local birders. This striking South American species, known for its bold plumage and loud, defiant calls, has long held a special place in Barbados’ avian history.

First recorded on the island in 1998, the species made headlines again in 2007 when a nesting pair at Bright Hall, St. Lucy produced three chicks—the first documented breeding of Southern Lapwings in the entire West Indies.  By 2021, the last time the species was recorded here, only a lone female remained. She faithfully returned each year to the Turf Farm at Bright Hall to nest. Despite laying eggs, her efforts were in vain—without a mate, the eggs were infertile, and no chicks emerged to carry the lineage forward, effectively halting the species’ expansion on the island. With no new sightings in recent years, many feared the Southern Lapwing had been lost to Barbados. But this new observation stirs hope once more. Whether the bird is our long-resident female or a fresh migrant from South America, one thing is certain: the Southern Lapwing has returned to Barbadian soil—even if just for a little while.

Lean more about the Southern Lapwing - Here and here