Magellanic Oystercatcher
NameMagellanic Oystercatcher
Common NameMagellanic Oystercatcher
Scientific NameHaematopus leucopodus
FamilyHaematopodidae
Wingspan (cm)82
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)642.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have entirely black heads, necks, backs, and upperwings, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts, rump, and secondary flight feathers. The bill is long, stout, and bright orange-red, and the eyes are yellow with an orange eye-ring. Legs are pale pink.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, piping, and whistling calls, often given in flight or as an alarm. They also produce a distinctive 'kleep' call.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in southern South America, including southern Chile and Argentina, and the Falkland Islands. During the austral winter, some populations migrate north along the coasts of central Argentina and Chile.
Identifying FeaturesBicolored black and white plumage, Long, bright orange-red bill, Yellow eyes with an orange eye-ring, Pale pink legs
Description
The Magellanic Oystercatcher is a striking shorebird with a distinctive black and white plumage. It forages along coastal areas, using its strong, bright orange bill to pry open bivalves and other marine invertebrates. This species is often seen wading in shallow water or walking along beaches.
