Magellanic Plover
NameMagellanic Plover
Common NameMagellanic Plover
Scientific NamePluvianellus socialis
FamilyPluvianellidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)85
Plumage DetailsAdults have pale pinkish-grey upperparts, head, and breast, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts. The bill is short and black, and the legs are bright pink. A striking feature is its bright red iris.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet bird, but it can emit soft, piping 'peep' or 'whit' calls, particularly when alarmed or in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeFound in southern Patagonia, breeding in Argentina and Chile, and wintering along the Atlantic coast of Argentina, occasionally reaching Uruguay.
Identifying Featurespinkish-grey upperparts, white underparts, bright red eyes, short pink legs, short black bill
Description
This unique shorebird is characterized by its pale pinkish-grey plumage, bright red eyes, and short, stout pink legs. It forages on coastal mudflats and beaches, often employing a distinctive running and stopping technique to find invertebrates.
