A small migratory shorebird found across coastal and inland regions of North and South America, characterized by its distinctive black breast band and webbed toes.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Coastal beaches, mudflats, sandy shores, tundra breeding grounds, and migration stopover sites in North and South America, ranging from Arctic breeding regions to wintering areas in South America
Ecological Role
Critical species in coastal ecosystem food webs, serving as both predator of small invertebrates and prey for larger predators; important indicator of coastal habitat health and migration route conditions
Morphology
SKIN COATBrown-gray plumage with white underside, black breast band, and distinctive white forehead patch
LIMBS WINGSSemi-webbed toes, enabling efficient movement across wet sandy surfaces; wingspan of 38-42 cm
HEAD SENSORYLarge eyes, short bill, excellent visual hunting capabilities for detecting small prey
BODY STRUCTURESmall plover, approximately 18-20 cm in length, weighing 40-55 g, with compact body and short neck
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Paul Danese
