Natives call the masked lapwing the ‘spear-carrying bird’ due to the sharp yellow spurs on its wings. When intruders such as ravens or cats approach nests or chicks, the lapwing swoops in and strikes with its spurs, calling loudly.
Strikes can lead to injuries, but the wing usually heals. Lapwings also pretend to have a broken wing or leg to divert predators from their young.