Spur-winged lapwing
Vanellus spinosus
At the Detroit Zoo
The spur-winged lapwing can be found inside the Matilda R. Wilson Free-Flight Aviary where more than 20 species of birds are free to fly, walk or swim among the cover of lush tropical plants in a warm and inviting climate.
Description
Spur-winged lapwings have olive-brown backs with white necks and bellies, and black legs, spurs and beaks.
Fun Facts
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Spur-winged lapwings use their spurs when diving from above to scare potential predators or intruders away from their nest or chicks.
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The bird’s call sounds like an alarm clock going off. Humans tend to not like the sound because it typically occurs at night.