Recurvirostra americana
The American Avocet, *Recurvirostra americana*, is a striking and elegant shorebird, instantly recognizable by its distinctive long, thin, upturned bill and bold black-and-white plumage. Adults measure approximately 40-51 cm (16-20 in) in length with a wingspan of 67-76 cm (26-30 in) and weigh between 275-420 g (9.7-14.8 oz). During the breeding season, its head, neck, and upper breast are adorned with a beautiful cinnamon-rufous wash, which fades to a dull grey-white in non-breeding plumage....
American Avocets primarily inhabit shallow, brackish or saline wetlands, including playas, salt evaporation ponds, estuaries, and mudflats, typically found at low to moderate elevations.
Their diet consists primarily of aquatic invertebrates, such as brine shrimp, insects (larvae and adults), and small crustaceans, obtained by sweeping their upturned bill through shallow water or mud.
American Avocets are diurnal, spending their days actively foraging in shallow waters and congregating in large flocks for communal roosting, often standing on one leg. Their most distinctive behavior is their unique foraging strategy: they sweep their upturned bill from side to side through the ...
The American Avocet breeds primarily across the interior and western United States, extending into southern Canada, notably in the Great Plains, Intermountain West, and Great Basin regions. Their breeding range includes states such as North Dakota, Montana, Utah, Nevada, and California's Central ...
Least Concern
- The American Avocet's bill is uniquely flexible and can be opened or closed underwater, allowing it to efficiently sieve prey from muddy substrates. - Their scientific name, *Recurvirostra*, translates to 'bent-back bill,' aptly describing their most distinctive feature. - During their elaborat...