Pied Avocet

The Pied Avocet is an elegant, boldly patterned shorebird with crisp black-and-white plumage, a black cap and nape, black stripes across the wings and back, and a long, thin bill that curves distinctly upward. Its legs are long and blue-gray.

It is widely recognized as a conservation icon in Britain, where the species serves as the emblem of the RSPB after recolonizing the coast following habitat protection efforts.

Key field marks

• Crisp black-and-white pied plumage
• Black cap and nape
• Long, thin, strongly upturned bill
• Blue-gray legs

Similar species

The American Avocet shows cinnamon-orange head coloring in breeding plumage rather than black-and-white. The Black-winged Stilt has a straight bill and pink legs.

Habitat

Shallow coastal lagoons, estuaries, salt pans, and inland saline wetlands.

Range and migration

Found across Europe, Africa, and Asia. European populations migrate to the Mediterranean, Africa, or milder coastal wintering areas, while some populations are resident.

Behavior

Feeds by sweeping its upturned bill from side to side through shallow water and soft mud; often rests standing on one leg in flocks outside the breeding season.

Voice

Sharp, fluting alarm calls, especially near nesting colonies.

Feeding

Aquatic insects, crustaceans, worms, and other small invertebrates detected by touch.

Nesting and breeding

Nests colonially on bare ground near water, with strong group defense against predators.