Spur-Winged Lapwing

Vanellus spinosus

Range

• Central Africa

Habitat

• Freshwater Shores

Diet

• Insects

Their common name refers to a small spur hidden in the feathers of their wings.

Spur-winged lapwings are one of 24 species of lapwings found in the plover family. A type of wading bird, lapwings are found almost everywhere but North America with this species living primarily in Africa. Both parents use their spurs to fiercely defend their eggs against larger, more dangerous animals by attacking in-flight or dive-bombing. They even screech at herds of passing elephants.