Madagascar Plover
NameMadagascar Plover
Common NameMadagascar Plover
Scientific NameCharadrius thoracicus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)41.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are sandy brown, providing camouflage against the ground. Underparts are white, separated from the brown upperparts by a broad black breast band. The head features a prominent black eye-stripe extending from the bill to behind the eye, bordered above by a clear white supercilium. The crown is sandy brown, and the bill is short and black. Legs are dark grey.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically described as soft, high-pitched 'pip' or 'chip' calls, often given when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, primarily found along the west and south coasts, inhabiting coastal lagoons, saltpans, mudflats, and sandy beaches.
Identifying FeaturesBlack breast band, Black eye-stripe with white supercilium, Small size, Sandy brown upperparts, Dark legs
Description
The Madagascar Plover is a small plover endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its distinctive head pattern and a prominent black breast band. It typically forages for small invertebrates in coastal and saline wetlands, often seen running and pausing to peck at prey.
