Killdeer: Builds its Nest on the Ground

Speckled eggs near the center of the photo

Can you spot the 4 brown speckled eggs in the middle of the photo?

They are the eggs of the Killdeer, a brown and white medium sized plover bird that likes to build its nest on open ground, often in sparse grass, dirt, or gravel, even in cities.

The Killdeer is a shore bird that likes to hang out in yards and on golf courses. A noisy bird, the killdeer reacts quickly to any disturbance. If you end up too close to their nest, you will witness the famous broken wing act for which it is famous.

If you see a bird like this running around quickly acting like it has a broken wing, stop right where you are. Look carefully and step lightly away as you leave the area, so you won't step on the eggs or baby chicks.

Youtube has some fascinating videos of this smart little bird in action: Broken Wing Act.