The Killdeer (charadrius vociferus) gets its common name from its cry as it flies overhead which sounds like “killdeer!” Its scientific name is Latin. The root of the genus is the same as the root for its subfamily, family and order: “charad” seems to point to two characteristics of this bird (and others in the smae order). They have markings which resemble masks and they chatter. Its Latin species name “vociferus” indicates that the Killdeer chatters loudly.
It nests on the ground, many times in open fields or large lawns. When any possible predator or human comes within sight of the nest, the male will feign having a broken wing and scurry away from the nest crying and squawking as if it is injured. This is to draw the predator’s attention away from the nest. As one gets close to the Killdeer, it takes off in flight. It is quite a remarkable charade to witness.
Family: Plovers
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