Vanellus miles   Masked lapwing

Vanellus miles masked lapwing front Vanellus miles masked lapwing side

Also known as the Spur-winged Plover in Tasmania and Australia, this is an aggressive ground nesting bird which dive bombs anyone getting near. There is a spur on the wing which it can use to defend its nest. There is a widespread myth that the spur is venomous but it isn't.

Port Arthur, Tasmania 28th August 2007

Added on 7th April 2009, updated 21st November 2014

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