Birds of Egypt: “Abu Maghazil,” The Spur-Winged Lapwing

“Abu Maghazil” may mean “Father of Hooks,” but a better translation might be “Father of Alarm Clocks.” If you think the rooster already has this title, you haven’t heard anything yet! Lucky you! These guys stand guard anxiously awaiting the tinyest crack of dawn. That looks like pitch black to me, but not to them. It obviously looks like a glorious green light to them! Ranged on the roof of the 5-story chicken farm 50 meters from my window, they explode raucously, competing for the “Loudest, Most Obnoxious Bird On Earth Award.”