Snowy Plover
NameSnowy Plover
Common NameSnowy Plover
Scientific NameCharadrius nivosus
FamilyCharadriidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)46
Plumage DetailsPale sandy-brown upperparts, white underparts. Adults have distinctive black patches on the forehead, behind the eye, and on the sides of the breast. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallA soft, whistled 'peep' or 'whit' often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along coastal areas of North and South America, as well as inland salt flats and alkaline lakes in western North America.
Identifying Featurespale sandy plumage, black patches on head and breast sides, small size, short black bill, black legs
Description
The Snowy Plover is a small, pale shorebird typically found on sandy beaches and mudflats. It has a distinctive run-and-pause foraging method, primarily feeding on small invertebrates.
