The Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis) is a distinctive, noisy, crested shorebird common across South America, known for its aggressive defense, bold black, white, and grey patterns, red eyes, pink legs, and sharp wing spurs used to fend off threats like predators and humans, often found in open grassy areas, even urban ones like soccer fields where it eats insects. It's the national bird of Uruguay (called "Tero") and Brazil ("Quero-quero") and is adaptable, thriving in human-modified landscapes like farms and parks.
Appearance & Identification
Crest: A long, wispy black crest sets it apart.
Coloration: Grey-brown back with bronze sheen, black face/throat/breast, white belly, and white wing bars visible in flight.
Head: Striking grey head with black forehead and throat patch, separated by a white line.
Eyes/Legs: Bright red eyes, pinkish eye-rings, and pink to reddish legs.
Size: About 30-38 cm (12-15 inches) long.
