Little Ringed Plover
NameLittle Ringed Plover
Common NameLittle Ringed Plover
Scientific NameCharadrius dubius
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are plain brown, underparts are white. It features a prominent black breast band, a black mask across the eyes, and a white forehead band. A striking yellow eye-ring is characteristic, and the bill is short and dark.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a soft, piping 'pew' or 'pee-oo', often repeated.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of temperate Eurasia, from western Europe to Japan, and winters in Africa and southern Asia. Some populations are resident.
Identifying FeaturesYellow eye-ring, Black breast band, Black mask across eyes, White forehead band, Short dark bill, Lack of prominent white wing-bar in flight
Description
The Little Ringed Plover is a small, short-billed wader with a distinctive head pattern. It forages on open, bare ground near water, often performing short runs and sudden stops to catch prey.
