Masked Lapwing Plover ~

If you grew up in suburban Australia you'll probably have witnessed the wrath of a masked lapwing.

It screams at its enemies (humans, dogs, cats, bicycles, lawnmowers).

It stalks around football ovals. It swoops.

But painting the masked lapwing as an evil swoopy bird is somewhat misleading.

The plover parents really just want you to move along from their nesting area.

The lapwing's daring aerial attacks are actually displays of its pure, parental love.

The best thing to do if you are being swooped, or visiting an area you know is home to nesting lapwings, is keep your head down and move slowly.

[Dawn]

So cool fav

[Shutterbug]

Terrific capture and I like how you describe the behavior. Good advice for respecting these attentive parents.

[KoalaGardens🐨]

what a great clear image of the gorgeous mask. the poor things nest on the ground, so they really have to be vigilant when they have a nest don't they! I've certainly had some encounters ...

[Issi Bannerman]

Lovely fellow.

[Diana]

Beautifully captured and such a great and interesting narrative.

[Babs]

They bust nest in the strangest places don't they. No wonder they are paranoid ha ha

[Wylie]

Or run for your life with a big stick! Silly birds :)

[Kathy A]

Great shot of his mask

[Merrelyn]

I've never managed to get close enough to get a decent shot, well done.

[PhotoCrazy]

Wonderful capture!

[Lou Ann]

Oh my. I really enjoyed your narrative. They also say to keep your head down and don’t look at a bear if you happen onto one. Smile.

[Carole Sandford]

Nice shot!

[Valerie Chesney]

@louannwarren Ha-Ha.. Made me smile Lou Ann....
I would rather meet a plover than a bear!

[Valerie Chesney]

@photographycrazy Thank you so much for your comment & Fav,,
I so appreciate your liking this shot!

[Valerie Chesney]

@koalagardens @ludwigsdiana @photographycrazy @Dawn @carole_sandford @louannwarren @merrelyn @kjarn @pusspup @onewing @jamibann @shutterbug49 Thank you all for liking this capture & for your great comments & Favs...