Masked lapwing

Description

These are midsized birds that have a striking yellow wattle on their black heads, with the upper parts coloured olive brown and the lower white. The legs are long and thin, with the toes joined by interdigital membranes that allow them to walk perfectly on mud and on sand. Both sexes are the same without seasonal changes. The young have a smaller wattle. 

Ethology

Lapwings remain with the same mate throughout the year, building their nest together always in the same place: a small hole dug in the ground, usually among the low grass near to water. They lay 3 eggs that are incubated for 28-30 days. The chicks have dark feathers with white patches on top. 

Interesting facts

They originated in North Australia and New Guinea, and have inspired many popular stories and proverbs. During the mating season, they become very suspicious and astute when guarding the nest. If they detect the presence of an intruder, they will move away from the nest and apply all kinds of tricks and misleading strategies to get the enemy away from the nest. They are sedentary, but may travel short distances if food or water is scarce.