Red-Wattled Lapwing Identified as Traditional Monsoon Forecaster in Rajasthan

Key facts

• The red-wattled lapwing (Vanellus indicus) serves as a traditional monsoon forecaster for farming communities in western India.
• A study published in the American Meteorological Society (AMS) documented the rain-prediction practices of 200 tribal farmers in southwestern Rajasthan over eight years.
• Nesting on elevated ground indicates substantial rainfall, while nesting in dry streambeds or low-lying areas indicates weak rainfall or drought.
• Vertical egg positions signify stronger or longer-lasting rainfall, whereas horizontal positions signify limited precipitation.
• Closely clustered eggs are associated with a favourable rainy season, while widely scattered eggs signal patchier rainfall.
• Other indicators used for rain prediction include nesting material, number of eggs, and egg-laying patterns.