BIRD OF THE YEAR

The lapwing (Venellus vanellus) is a real eye-catcher with its shimmering metallic wings and the striking feather cap on its head. The "juggler of the air" is also known for its spectacular mating flights and catchy call. As Bird of the Year, it stands for biodiversity in the agricultural landscape, because like many other meadow breeders, the lapwing is highly endangered.

The Whinchat (Saxicola rubetra) is a small bird favoring open grassy marshlands. In Bavaria it has become very rare. It returns from his winter quarters in April and looks for richly structured meadows. The male has a white eye stripe and sings from elevated perches. It requires extensively utilized meadows that are not mown before late in the summer. Artificial perching vantage points are helpful.

The hoopoe (Upupa epops) is a striking, endangered bird in Central Europe, with only 800 to 950 breeding pairs in Germany. It lives mainly in open landscapes and returns from Africa at the end of April. With a size of about 30 cm and a characteristic feather hood, it is easy to recognize. Its diet consists of large insects, and young birds can defend themselves with unpleasant secretion.

The Bird of the Year from Goebel, made of the

finest bisque porcelain and handpainted,

​ is available in two sizes.

Various birds from recent years can still be ordered in the Goebel online shop.