Eurasian Oystercatcher
Image: jrodben (cc-by-nc)
NameEurasian Oystercatcher
Common NameEurasian Oystercatcher
Scientific NameHaematopus ostralegus
FamilyHaematopodidae
Wingspan (cm)83
Length (cm)43
Weight (g)550
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black plumage on the head, neck, back, and upperwings, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts and a white rump. A prominent white wing-bar is visible in flight. The bill is long, straight, and bright orange-red, and the legs are pinkish-red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, piping calls, often described as 'kleep-kleep' or 'pic-pic-pic', especially when alarmed or in flight. They also have a rapid, trilling alarm call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatssandy beaches, rocky shores, estuaries, mudflats, saltmarshes
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across coastal Europe, western Asia, and parts of Africa. Winters in coastal areas further south, including parts of Africa and the Middle East.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive black and white plumage, long, bright orange-red bill, pinkish-red legs, coastal habitat, loud piping calls
Description
The Eurasian Oystercatcher is a large, striking wader known for its bold black and white plumage and long, bright orange bill. These birds are typically found foraging along coastlines, using their specialized bills to pry open bivalve molluscs.
