Description
The northern lapwing is a striking meadow bird with a glossy black-green back, white belly, and distinctive crest. Its 'peewit' call is unmistakable. It's a protected species.
Behavior
Lapwings are particularly aggressive in defending their nest during the breeding season (March–June). They dive and screech at anything that comes near, including people, dogs, and large birds.
What to do
Follow the red stakes farmers place around lapwing nests. Give the nest a wide berth of 20–30 meters. The eggs lie unprotected on the ground.
Pro tip
If a lapwing performs a 'broken wing' display (acting injured and limping away), it's a distraction tactic — the nest is nearby. Turn back.
Interesting fact
A lapwing egg always lies with its narrow tip pointing down in the nest scrape. Farmers used to turn the eggs to check freshness before protective laws were introduced.