Why is the stone-curlew’s ground nesting strategy effective for its reproduction?

The stone-curlew’s ground nesting strategy is highly effective for its reproduction primarily because it leverages the bird’s natural camouflage and habitat preferences. By nesting directly on the ground in open, dry environments such as gravelly or sandy terrain, the stone-curlew reduces the visibility of its eggs and chicks to potential predators. The eggs are speckled and closely resemble the surrounding substrate, blending seamlessly with pebbles and dry leaves. This cryptic coloration makes it difficult for predators to detect the nests, enhancing the chances of the eggs remaining safe during the critical incubation period.

Additionally, stone-curlews are most active during the night or twilight hours, which further decreases the likelihood of nest disturbance from diurnal predators and human activity. Their choice of nesting sites in sparsely vegetated areas allows adult birds to have a clear field of view, helping them spot threats early and engage in distraction displays to draw predators away from their vulnerable nests. Ground nesting eliminates the need for complex nest structures, which might attract attention, and instead relies on behavioral adaptation combined with environmental concealment.

Furthermore, the ground nesting approach coincides with the bird’s efficient breeding cycle and the ability to quickly relocate if disturbance becomes imminent. Stone-curlews tend to lay only a few eggs per season, investing significant parental effort in each brood. This focused care, combined with the strategic nesting sites, improves the likelihood that hatchlings will survive when they leave the nest relatively quickly and are adept at remaining still and hidden. Overall, the stone-curlew’s ground nesting strategy balances vulnerability with stealth and protective behavior, supporting successful reproduction in its natural habitat.