This is a Spur-Winged Plover. Sometimes these birds run a few steps, then shake one foot rapidly close to the ground. Its a good way to scare up a tasty insect or lizard. They build nests on the ground. They fiercely protect their young, often dive-bombing predators that come too close.
Habitat: Mudflats, wetlands and nearly fields and grasslands across the northern part of sub-Saharan Africa.
Diet: Insects and small reptiles.
Scientific Name: Vanellus spinosus

All this data was taken from the plaque at the Denver Zoo