Ujjwala Shivaji Deshmukh, Darshan Dudhane and Amey Thakare

Present study was designed with an aim to study Population and Distribution of River Lapwing (Vanellus duvaucelii) in Melghat region (Kutanga to Rangubeli). River Lapwing is near to threatened species, mostly found on the bank of large rivers in India. The river Tapti flows through Melghat Tiger Reserve. The survey was carried out at selected stretches 5838.65 m. between Kutanga (21.714079, 77.087527) and Rangubeli (21.719593, 77.139037) on the Tapi river bank to estimate population of River lapwings and foraging and social behavior. 12 individuals were observed during all the 4 visits at Kutanga and 6 individuals were observed at Rangubeli. Activities of the individuals was at peak during early hours of the day and lowest during noon time. The River lapwings were observed comfortably interacting with other species of birds like River tern, Red-wattled lapwing, Grey wagtail, White browed wagtail, little ringed plover, small pratincole and common sandpiper. At Rangubeli the river lapwings were observed roosting in rock crevices during noon hours of the day.

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