Masked Lapwing, sprained ankle

[John Leonard <>]

I atttend a gym in Canberra and arrive there at opening time several times a week. This is before dawn and the car-park has lights in it. At this time, before too many cars turn up, many Common Mynas and Pied Currawongs frequent this area to feed on insects attracted to the lights. This week a pair of Masked Lapwings has joined them. On Monday I observed that one of the MLs was sitting on the ground. When I approached it rose and hobbled away, looking to have a badly-sprained ankle which buckled every time it put its foot down. By today, however, it seemed to be in only mild dicomfort and it could walk almost normally on this leg.

 

This is the first time I have noted a wild bird injured, and then the same individual (presumably) apparently recovering.

--
John Leonard
Canberra