Eurasian Oystercatcher
NameEurasian Oystercatcher
Common NameEurasian Oystercatcher
Scientific NameHaematopus ostralegus
FamilyHaematopodidae
Wingspan (cm)83
Length (cm)42.5
Weight (g)620
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black head, neck, back, and upperwings, contrasting sharply with a pure white belly, rump, and underwings. The long, stout bill is bright orange-red with a paler tip, and the eyes are red with an orange orbital ring. Legs are pinkish.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, piping calls, often described as 'kleep' or a rapid 'pic-pic-pic' series, especially when alarmed or in flight. They also have a distinctive 'pee-eep' alarm call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, estuary, mudflat, rocky shore, saltmarsh
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across temperate Eurasia, from Iceland and western Europe to central Asia and Siberia. Winters along the coasts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, often migrating south from northern breeding grounds.
Identifying FeaturesBlack and white plumage, Long, bright orange-red bill, Red eyes with orange orbital ring, Pinkish legs, Coastal habitat
Description
The Eurasian Oystercatcher is a distinctive large wader, easily recognized by its striking black and white plumage, long orange-red bill, and red eyes. It is typically found foraging along coastlines, using its specialized bill to pry open bivalves or probe for worms.
