Tasmanians are being reminded to keep their distance from the Masked Lapwing as the bird enters its breeding season.
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A Facebook post by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service said the bird, commonly known as plover, was defensive when protecting their eggs and young, and this behaviour had earned them a bad reputation.
”We urge a bit of tolerance during the breeding season,” the post said.
Plovers are found in a variety of natural and modified habitats, usually near water and greenery.
Urban areas in which the bird inhabits include roadside verges, fields, parks and golf courses.
Parks and wildlife recommend people back away if the bird becomes agitated.
“Don’t deliberately ‘stir up’ the birds, it only increases their aggression,” the post said.
Plovers pair for life, taking up territories from May to June and breeding in late winter to early spring.
The bird swoops at intruders, so it is important to keep your behaviour predictable.
“Carry an umbrella if you know you will be walking through a plover breeding area – the birds will swoop the umbrella,” the post said.
Plovers are common throughout the state and are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2001 and Wildlife Regulations 1999.