Recurvirostra novaehollandiae
The Red-necked Avocet, *Recurvirostra novaehollandiae*, is a striking medium-sized wading bird endemic to Australia, immediately recognizable by its distinctive, strongly upcurved bill. Measuring approximately 42-48 cm (16.5-19 inches) in length with a wingspan of 67-75 cm (26-29.5 inches) and weighing 290-390 grams (10-14 oz), this species boasts a predominantly white body contrasted with bold black flight feathers and a rich chestnut head and neck. Its most notable field mark, beyond the un...
This species primarily inhabits shallow, often brackish or saline wetlands, including saltmarshes, estuaries, and temporary inland lakes, typically found at low elevations near water bodies.
Their diet consists primarily of aquatic invertebrates such as insects (larvae, beetles), crustaceans, and sometimes small fish, which they efficiently gather using their specialized bill to sweep through shallow water.
Red-necked Avocets are diurnal, spending their days foraging and often roosting communally in large flocks, particularly outside the breeding season. Their distinctive foraging technique involves sweeping their slender, upcurved bills from side to side just below the water's surface, sifting for ...
The Red-necked Avocet is endemic to Australia, found across most of the continental mainland, with occasional vagrant sightings in Tasmania and very rarely New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Its distribution is highly nomadic, particularly in the arid interior, where populations follow unpredictab...
Least Concern
- The Red-necked Avocet is one of only four avocet species worldwide, and the only one endemic to Australia. - Its scientific name, *novaehollandiae*, refers to "New Holland," an old Dutch name for Australia. - Unlike most waders, it can swim quite well, often feeding in deeper water where it wil...