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Black-bellied Plover
-Pluvialis squalarola-
Our largest plover with relatively large head and heavy bill, white tail and black axillaries (armpits) are distinctive. Strikingly colored in breeding plumage when belly and flanks become black, contrasting with white rear and tail and brilliantly spangled silver grey upper parts. Moults to winter plumage in mid August to early September and retains this until April; this being a fairly plain grey above, with a grey-speckled breast and white belly. Frequents bay and Gulf of Mexico shorelines. Breeds to the far north and birds summering here are non-breeders. Call is a mournful 3 note whistle.
Length: 11.4"
Wing span: 29"
Weight: 8 oz
Our largest plover with relatively large head and heavy bill, white tail and black axillaries (armpits) are distinctive. Strikingly colored in breeding plumage when belly and flanks become black, contrasting with white rear and tail and brilliantly spangled silver grey upper parts. Moults to winter plumage in mid August to early September and retains this until April; this being a fairly plain grey above, with a grey-speckled breast and white belly. Frequents bay and Gulf of Mexico shorelines. Breeds to the far north and birds summering here are non-breeders. Call is a mournful 3 note whistle.
Length: 11.4"
Wing span: 29"
Weight: 8 oz