American Avocet

Recurvirostra americana

The American Avocet is a distinctive shorebird with a long, thin, upturned bill and striking black-and-white plumage. During the breeding season, its head and neck turn rusty orange, adding to its allure. These elegant birds are often found in shallow wetlands, mudflats, and salt ponds, where they forage for aquatic invertebrates by sweeping their bills from side to side. They are known for their graceful and rhythmic feeding behavior. American Avocets are highly social and often form large flocks during migration. Their populations face threats from habitat loss and degradation, but conservation efforts are underway to protect their breeding and foraging sites.

Habitat: Shallow wetlands, mudflats, salt ponds