Common Name: Black-shouldered Lapwing, Masked Plover

Distribution: Common throughout northern, central and eastern Australia. The species is found in Indonesia, New Guinea, New Caledonia and New Zealand. New Caledonian and New Zealand populations have been formed from birds that have flown there from Australia.

Ecological Notes: Inhabits marshes, mudflats, beaches, grasslands and urban areas. Black-shouldered Lapwings feed on insects and their larvae, and earthworms. Most food is obtained from just below the surface of the ground, but some may also be taken above the surface.

Additional Notes: Birds are most often observed feeding alone, in pairs or in small groups. The species will vigorously defend its nesting site, particularly after the chicks have hatched when adults will dive on intruders, or act as though they have a broken wing in an attempt to lure the intruder away.

References: Birdlife Australia at https://birdlife.org.au/bird-profiles/masked-lapwing/ Accessed 14 August 2023.

Birds in Backyards at https://www.birdsinbackyards.net/species/Vanellus-miles Accessed 24 July 2023.