First recorded breeding in NZ in 1930 this bird is self introduced from Australia. You can often spot pairs in open fields, along estuaries and wetlands. These birds have a sharp spur on their wing joint. When they have a nest they protect their territory from other birds with loud cries or by trying to slash at them in mid air with their wings or legs. They have been known to kill dotterel chicks and are multiplying rapidly.

Spur-winged plover websites

• NZ Birds Online spur-winged plover page
• Oiseaux-birds spur-winged plover page

Front view of wattles

Side view of spur winged plover

Coming in to land

You can see the wing spurs in this silouette