Egyptian Plover: A bird that picks food from the teeth of a crocodile!

May 15, 2025 Aakanksha Sharma

Egyptian Plover birds

The Egyptian Plover is one of the most unique and distinct birds, not just for its look and survival tactics, but also for its particular food habits. They are nicknamed ‘crocodile birds', and here are some interesting facts about them. Canva

Where can they be seen?

The Egyptian Plovers are mostly found near rivers and lakes, and these birds prefer living in low-density areas where trees and other forms of wildlife are not in excess. As they are pretty small in size, clear ways help them fly and evade predators. Canva

Its relationship with crocodiles

The Egyptian Plover is famous for its relationship with crocodiles. How? Well, it is said that the Plover picks leftover meat and parasites from the open mouths of crocodiles, and the crocodile does not attempt to eat it. It just gets a free tooth cleaning. Canva

Is it really true?

While many people believe in the tooth-cleaning and cordial relationship story, there is very limited evidence of the same. Some experts say that this is nothing more than a legend, but the Plovers are observed being around crocodiles often. Canva

The beautiful colours

The Plover is also a beautiful bird with black, white, and soft bluish-gray feathers. It has a black band on its chest and head, and the legs are long and slender, helping it walk through muddy riverbanks. Canva

The primary diet

The main diet of the Plover is insects, worms, and parasites, and it finds its food in shallow waters or around large animals. It helps in cleaning up scraps around rivers, and makes for its food. Canva

The Plover’s nest

Another interesting fact about them is that Plovers dont build a traditional nest, but rather incubate their eggs in sand. If they sense any danger to the eggs, both the parents bury them in sand, and if they get too warm, water helps soothe down. Canva

The bird’s nature

Although they are believed to fetch food from crocodiles, which is pretty high risk, Plovers are surprisingly calm and quiet in nature. Canva

The broken wing technique

Another interesting fact about the Plover is that they are believed to have a survival technique where they pretend to have a broken wing. As the predator walks towards them thinking the bird won't be able to fly, they quickly fly, redirecting harm away from the other bird. Canva

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