Saint Helena Plover
NameSaint Helena Plover
Common NameSaint Helena Plover
Scientific NameCharadrius sanctaehelenae
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts are pale sandy-brown, contrasting with pure white underparts. The head features a prominent white supercilium, a black eye-stripe extending from the bill to behind the eye, and a black band across the forehead. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a soft, piping 'peep' or 'chip' call, often given when disturbed or in flight. It can also produce a short, sharp alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to Saint Helena Island, a remote volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive black and white head pattern, pale sandy-brown upperparts, white underparts, small size, black bill and legs
Description
This small plover is endemic to Saint Helena Island, characterized by its pale sandy-brown upperparts and white underparts. It exhibits a distinctive black and white head pattern and forages for invertebrates in open, dry habitats. It is a terrestrial bird, often seen running and pausing to peck at prey.
