Why do killdeer lay eggs on the ground?

Killdeer lay their eggs on the ground as a strategy for nesting in open habitats, such as fields and gravel areas, where they can easily camouflage their eggs among natural debris. This ground-nesting behavior allows them to take advantage of the available resources in their environment. Additionally, their eggs have a speckled appearance that helps them blend into the surroundings, providing protection from predators. By nesting on the ground, killdeer also ensure that their young can quickly access open areas for foraging once they hatch.