Puna plover

Charadrius melanops

The Puna plover (Charadrius melanops) is a small shorebird found in the high-altitude grasslands and wetlands of the Andes mountains in South America. This species is known for its distinctive black face mask and white underparts. Puna plovers are highly adapted to their harsh alpine environment, where they forage for insects and small invertebrates in the sparse vegetation and around the edges of water bodies. They are known for their sharp, melodious calls and agile running and feeding behavior. The Puna plover faces threats from habitat loss and disturbance, and its population is declining, leading to a conservation status of Near Threatened according to the IUCN Red List.

Habitat: High-altitude grasslands and wetlands