Plovers (Charadriiformes)

Spur Winged Plover (Vanellus miles) (masked lapwing)

Very noisy bird. This large plover has a very conspicuous plumage and accessories. It is white/brown with a black wig-like top to its head. It has a bright yellow bill that flares into a facial patch the same colour giving the bird a weird appearance. Regularly seen in pairs or small family groups.Australian introduction first bred in New Zealand at Invercargill airport in 1932.