Anarhynchus sanctaehelenae
The St. Helena Plover, locally and affectionately known as the "Wirebird," is a charismatic and critically endangered shorebird, endemic to the remote South Atlantic island of St. Helena. Measuring approximately 23-28 cm in length with a wingspan of about 45-50 cm, it presents a distinctive appearance with predominantly sandy-brown upperparts and pristine white underparts. Key field marks include a prominent white supercilium, a dark band across its white breast, and long, slender, dark legs,...
Primarily inhabits open, dry grasslands, semi-arid plains, and degraded pasturelands across the inland plateau of St. Helena, often utilizing areas with short vegetation and sparse ground cover.
Feeds primarily on a variety of terrestrial invertebrates, including insects (such as beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers) and their larvae, as well as spiders and worms, typically caught by gleaning and probing the ground.
The St. Helena Plover is diurnal, spending its days actively foraging for insects and invertebrates. Its foraging strategy involves the classic plover 'run-stop-peck' technique, visually scanning for prey before a swift dash. Highly territorial, particularly during the breeding season, pairs defe...
The St. Helena Plover is strictly endemic to the remote volcanic island of St. Helena, situated in the South Atlantic Ocean. Its entire global distribution is confined to this single island, where it is a year-round resident with no migratory movements or vagrant records due to its isolated natur...
Critically Endangered
- The St. Helena Plover is affectionately known as the "Wirebird" by locals, a name derived from its remarkably slender legs. - It is the national bird of St. Helena and holds immense cultural significance for the islanders. - This plover is the last surviving endemic land bird species on St. Hel...