Plovers and People

The birds we see strutting around suburban areas we commonly call Plovers are more correctly known as Masked Lapwings (Vanellus miles). They stand about 35 cm high and are easily distinguished by the yellow beak and yellow facial wattles. The head is black, the chest white, with brown wings and back. The dark red legs are easily seen too. Their loud strident call can be heard day or night and often heralds their presence in the area.

These Plovers have done well since European settlement. Human induced habitat changes have provided large grassy areas ideally suited to the birds breeding requirements.

Plovers breed during the warmer months. Up to four eggs are laid. The eggs are olive to brown with blotchy markings helping with camouflage. Eggs are usually laid directly onto level ground in an open area, although they are known to nest on places such as flat roofs. Small twigs can be used to define the nest area.

The places that Plovers make their nests can be very inconvenient at times. It is often a sports field or the local park, even next to your front door or the supermarket car park. Once the birds settle on a breeding site, they will vigorously defend their eggs and young. All intruders, friend or foe, will be subjected to repeat swooping attacks until they vacate the area.

Fortunately this aggressive behaviour usually only lasts for a few weeks. The eggs will hatch in about 28 days. Once the chicks have hatched the parent birds will concentrate on feeding their chicks and the level of attacks will noticeably reduce.

The Plovers diet is predominantly insects but also includes some vegetable matter.

Threats to the Plover

• Mowers

• Harassment by humans

• Feral predators such as dogs and cats and foxes

• Insecticide poisoning their food source will eventually kill them

How you can help

Avoid an area where Plovers are known to be nesting. Never walk directly toward them and don't make eye contact. This will only be for a few weeks then life will get back to normal.

If you and your family would like to observe the birds and keep details of the hatching time, the survival rate for the chicks, and data on chick behaviour, this would be most welcomed by our Society. Forward information to Bayside Branch.