American Golden-Plover
NameAmerican Golden-Plover
Common NameAmerican Golden-Plover
Scientific NamePluvialis dominica
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)63.5
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)155
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, as pictured, the bird has a black face, throat, and belly, sharply delineated by a prominent white stripe extending from the forehead, over the eye, and down the sides of the neck to the flanks. The back and wings are mottled with golden-yellow and black speckles. Non-breeding plumage is duller, with grayish-brown upperparts and pale underparts.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a clear, whistled 'tlee-oo' or 'klee-oo', often given in flight. It also produces a shorter 'kew' or 'kleep' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatstundra, grassland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Arctic tundra of North America, including Alaska and northern Canada. It undertakes a remarkable long-distance migration, primarily over the Atlantic Ocean, to winter in the grasslands and agricultural fields of southern South America, particularly Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face and belly with white border in breeding plumage, Golden-spangled back and wings, Long-distance migrant, Slender, relatively short bill, Long dark legs
Description
The American Golden-Plover is a medium-sized shorebird known for its striking black and gold breeding plumage. It undertakes one of the longest migratory journeys of any bird, breeding in the Arctic tundra and wintering in South America.
