The rock pratincole is a species of bird in the family Glareolidae.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs along large rocky rivers and rapids across West, Central, and parts of East and Southern Africa, including stretches of the Congo, Niger, Nile, Zambezi, and their tributaries. Prefers broad river channels with exposed boulders, rocky islets, and fast-flowing sections. Breeds on midstream rocks during the dry season when water levels are low and rocks are exposed. Outside the breeding season it disperses locally along river margins, sandbars, and lakeshores but remains tied to open water and rock features.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Rock pratincoles breed on bare, sun‑baked rocks in mid‑river channels during the dry season, laying eggs in shallow scrapes close to the waterline. They shift locally as river levels rise and fall, often moving with the first heavy rains. In flight they are swallow‑like and extremely agile, hawking insects low over rapids and riffles.
Rock pratincole in Kenya
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
agile, swallow-like with short rapid wingbeats and quick aerial sallies
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small groups roosting and nesting on exposed rocks. Nests are simple scrapes on bare stone, usually 1–2 eggs; both parents incubate and tend the chicks. Semi-colonial nesting may occur where suitable rock patches are clustered.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives sharp, whistled calls and trills, often a high, piping twee-tee in flight. Excited chattering and rapid whistles are common during aerial chases and at breeding sites.
