Mountain Plover
NameMountain Plover
Common NameMountain Plover
Scientific NameCharadrius montanus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsAdults have sandy-brown upperparts, white underparts, and a pale head with a faint dark line through the eye (more prominent in breeding plumage). The bill is short and dark, and the legs are yellowish. It lacks the distinct breast bands typical of many other plover species.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, whistled 'whoo' or 'kwoot', often given in flight or when disturbed. It also produces a low 'krrup' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds in the western Great Plains of North America, primarily in shortgrass prairie. Winters in California, Arizona, Texas, and northern Mexico, often in agricultural fields or dry grasslands.
Identifying FeaturesLack of breast band, Sandy-brown upperparts, White underparts, Pale head with faint eye-line, Short dark bill, Yellowish legs, Preference for dry, upland habitats
Description
The Mountain Plover is a slender, medium-sized shorebird adapted to dry, open grasslands. It is known for its cryptic sandy-brown plumage, which provides excellent camouflage in its preferred habitat. Unlike most plovers, it lacks a prominent breast band.
