Masked Lapwing

Vanellus miles is an Australian lapwing that colonised New Zealand naturally. It differs from other local plovers through its large size, yellow facial wattles and sharp wing spurs. The head and breast are black and white, the back is brown, and the legs are reddish. Bright yellow wattles hang beside the bill.

It is widespread on both main islands and occurs on some offshore islands. Open pasture, wetlands, river margins and playing fields are typical habitat. It eats worms, insects and other invertebrates while walking across short ground. Adults aggressively swoop at threats near nests and chicks.

The New Zealand classification is Not Threatened. They are easy to see around Christchurch, Hamilton and pasture beside Lake Rotorua.