The Black-bellied Plover can be found on six different continents during the winter season, but breeds only on Arctic tundra. Most migrate southward along the coastlines, but small numbers move through the interior of the continent, where they may stop to forage in bare agricultural fields. They are the largest of the North American plovers. Note the bird to the right is in non-breeding plumage. Birds in breeding plumage are much more richly colored and patterned, with a black-belly offset by white rump, cap, and neck, and a boldly patterned back and wings.
Habitat:
Found in Arctic tundra during summer breeding season. In migration and winter, they are primarily found on sandy beaches and tidal flats, although those few that do migrate through the interior of the continent will also stop on overgrazed pastures, short-grass prairies, and freshly plowed fields.
Diet:
Primarily feeds on insects on its summer breeding grounds. In migration and in winter, also eats mollusks, crustaceans, marine worms, and some plant material.
Behavior:
Can be heard whistling either day or night. Finds most food by sight, running along the ground and pausing periodically to peck at edible bits.
Interactive eBird Map:
Click to access an interactive eBird map of Black-bellied Plover sightings
Song:
The call of the Black-bellied Plover is a clear, mournful, whistled “peee-oo” often given in flight and carrying long distances across open shorelines or mudflats.
Migration:
Summers throughout the Arctic. Winters in an incredible number of regions, from the coasts of the United States, southward all the way through South America, and even in Africa and Australia. Note that small numbers of these, mostly immatures, can be seen along U.S. coastlines at any time during the year.
Similar Species:
American Golden Plover , Pacific Golden-Plover. To differentiate these three plovers, focus on their underwing colors, primary wing projections, and structural proportions. The Black-bellied Plover is the largest and sturdiest, uniquely showing black armpits in flight and a much thicker, heavier bill than the golden-plovers. The American Golden-Plover is more slender with very long wings that project significantly past the tail at rest, and it lacks the bright yellow-gold tones often seen in its Pacific relative. The Pacific Golden-Plover has shorter wings that barely extend past the tail, longer legs that give it a leggier appearance, and generally retains more distinct golden-yellow spotting on its back throughout the year.
Status:
The Black-bellied Plover (also known as the Grey Plover) was recently reclassified by the IUCN from Least Concern to Vulnerable due to a reported global population decline of approximately 30%. While its Arctic breeding grounds remain relatively secure, the species faces increasing threats from habitat loss and human disturbance at the critical coastal mudflats and estuaries where it winters.
Photo Information:
Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, Alabama - February 13th, 2008 - Terry Sohl
