A stocky shorebird with distinctive black belly patch in breeding plumage. Solitary forager; alarm calls warn other birds of predators.

Also called: Grey Plover

Native status: Native to North America

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 15–30 cm (6–12 in); wingspan 35–75 cm
Weight40–250 g
LifespanWild 5–10 years
OrderCharadriiformes
FamilyCharadriidae

§ Encyclopedia

The grey plover or black-bellied plover is a large plover breeding in Arctic regions. It is a long-distance migrant, with a nearly worldwide coastal distribution when not breeding.

Source: Wikipedia — Grey plover Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Stocky plover with a stout bill; breeding adults have a black face and belly with a frosty-spangled back; nonbreeding birds plain gray. In flight shows black 'armpits' (axillaries) and a white rump.

Similar species. American Golden-Plover has gray underwings and a gold-spangled back; the black axillaries and white rump are diagnostic for Black-bellied.

Voice. A plaintive, far-carrying three-note whistle 'pee-oo-ee', slurring down then up.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects, small invertebrates from shoreline or open ground.

Behavior. The largest North American plover; a wary tundra breeder that winters on coastal mudflats and beaches worldwide, often acting as a sentinel for mixed shorebird flocks.

§ Range

Across North America during migration; Arctic breeders

§ Habitat

Coastal mudflats, beaches, estuaries

§ Threats

Coastal habitat loss, climate change.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the black-bellied plover is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support coastal protection. Reduce shoreline pollution.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab of Ornithology — All About Birds
  • National Audubon Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List