Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Lapwing on guard

A red-wattled lapwing shielding its egg by standing over them to provide shade, ensuring the embryos remain cool and protected from overheating. Known for their piercing calls, these birds are highly territorial and fiercely protective of their nests. When sensing threats, they employ distraction displays, such as feigning injury, to lure predators away from their eggs or chicks. This behavior demonstrates their remarkable survival strategies in increasingly urbanized landscapes, where natural habitats are scarce. Despite their adaptability, they remain vulnerable to habitat loss and human disturbances.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Camera: ILCE-7RM5
Copyright: © Lakshitha Karunarathna