South Island Pied Oystercatcher
NameSouth Island Pied Oystercatcher
Common NameSouth Island Pied Oystercatcher
Scientific NameHaematopus finschi
FamilyHaematopodidae
Wingspan (cm)81
Length (cm)46
Weight (g)600
Plumage DetailsAdults have a glossy black head, neck, upperparts, and a black breast band. The underparts are pure white. A white patch is visible on the rump and a white bar on the wings during flight. The bill is long, straight, and bright orange-red, and the legs are pinkish-red. Eyes are bright red with an orange orbital ring.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, piping calls, often described as 'kleep-kleep' or 'pee-pee-pee'. They also produce various alarm and display calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, breeding mainly on the South Island and migrating to estuaries on both the North and South Islands during the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesBold black and white plumage, Long, bright orange-red bill, Pinkish-red legs, Red eyes with orange orbital ring, Distinctive piping calls
Description
This striking wader is characterized by its bold black and white plumage, long bright orange bill, and pinkish-red legs. It is endemic to New Zealand, where it forages on coastal mudflats and inland agricultural fields for invertebrates.
