It’s that time of year again when the nesters are getting a bit protective over their eggs and young chicks (Don’t blame them, really). So, make sure you keep your sunglasses on when you’re heading anywhere near their nesting site.
Who are the major offenders in this region?
Of course, the magpie comes to everyone’s mind, but don’t forget the Masked Lapwings (or Plovers), the Magpie Lark (peewee/Mudlark).
The Masked Lapwing nest on the ground and sometimes their nests don’t look like much at all and can go unnoticed by the passerby. That is, until you’re spotted by a very unhappy bird. They have a very high-pitched warning call when they feel threatened.
They also have a very sharp spur on their wing, which they use against predators. So just avoid going anywhere near the nest. Once the chicks have hatched, they are able to move and hide and feel less threatened.
Peewees or Magpie Larks are sometimes known to attack from the front, flying towards you as you walk along, unlike the Magpie, which is known to come from behind. The frontal attack is very dangerous in terms of human eyes, and the damage can be very painful and sometimes permanent, so keep your sunglasses on this breeding season and take note of where the nests are. Avoid stirring the birds up. Walking in a group is recommended in high-risk sites.
– Kathy Tenion, Bidgee Woodlands Local Landcare Coordinator.
Masked Lapwing note the spurs on the wings.
Masked Lapwing next with 3 speckled eggs.
Masked Lapwing nest. Sparsely lined with dry grass and small pebbles.
