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| Masked Lapwing "Spur-winged Plover" Vanellus miles novaehollandiae Cape York, Queensland, Australia, 2012 |
I was terrified of these guys when I was a kid. I remember being attacked by squadrons of them. They sank battleships around me. Their frightening screams in my face just increasing the fear of their legend... I was told that they had spurs on their wings and they would rip all the skin from my puny bones... I just knew them then as "Plovers".
Actually I was attacked often and they never came in contact with me. I think they are all show.
...and what a show. Just keep away from them when they're nesting!
4 comments:
I know what you mean. The Red-wattled Lapwings here have that trait too.
That sound they make reminds me instantly of my time in Australia...........
Lapwings in the UK (the same type that winters in Japan) have the most beautiful display flight and song.......
Just like our own (Northern) Lapwing Russell, lots of noise and bluster but although occasionally inches away, they never ever make contact. Good to see your variation on the theme.
Love the first image - nicely caught, showing the spurs and wattles!
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