American Avocet
NameAmerican Avocet
Common NameAmerican Avocet
Scientific NameRecurvirostra americana
FamilyRecurvirostridae
Wingspan (cm)72
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)347.5
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the head and neck are a rich cinnamon-orange to rusty color. The body is strikingly patterned with a white belly, black back, and prominent white wing stripes contrasting with black flight feathers. Non-breeding birds have a gray head and neck.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, repeated 'wheet' or 'kleek' call, often given in flight or when disturbed. They can also produce a series of rapid, piping notes.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the interior western United States and parts of Canada, migrating to winter along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the U.S. and Mexico, as well as the Gulf Coast.
Identifying Featureslong upturned bill, long blue-gray legs, rusty head and neck (breeding plumage), striking black and white body pattern, wading and sweeping feeding behavior
Description
This elegant shorebird is characterized by its long, slender blue-gray legs and a distinctive thin, upturned bill. It typically wades in shallow waters, sweeping its bill from side to side to forage for aquatic invertebrates. During breeding season, its head and neck display a striking rusty coloration.
