Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

During the late spring/early summer these birds occupy the fields around us and are aggressively territorial. This one was fiercely defending his patch from two others, and in the process didn't mind me approaching in the 'car blind'. In the background are daisies and dandelions typical of the field landscape. I have toyed with the idea of replacing the yellow dandelion above the head with a white daisy for unity, but thought it would also be interesting to hear your opinions. Although I have other poses which show off the sheen of the wings better, I chose this one for the clear view of the double head crest.

Nikon d40 with Sigma 120-400
1/800 f8 iso 400

Thanks for looking

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/...2a679835_z.jpg
kievit 1 by Geoff Warnock, on Flickr