Plovers

Order: CHARADRIIFORMES - Family: CHARADRIIDAE

71 Species currently existing - 10 in region

Plovers are a diverse group of shorebirds belonging to the family Charadriidae, comprising about 66 species worldwide. Here are some important points about plovers: Read in Spanish

Physical Characteristics: Plovers are typically small to medium-sized birds with compact bodies, short necks, and relatively short bills. They have rounded wings, a short tail, and strong legs. Their plumage is often cryptic, providing camouflage in their sandy or rocky habitats.

Habitat: Plovers are found in a variety of habitats, including shorelines, beaches, mudflats, grasslands, and tundra. They are commonly associated with open areas near water where they can find their preferred prey.

Diet: Plovers are carnivorous and feed primarily on insects, worms, crustaceans, mollusks, and other invertebrates. They use their sharp bills to probe the sand or mud for prey and are often seen running along the shoreline to catch small creatures.

Behavior: Plovers are known for their distinctive behavior, such as their quick, darting movements and their characteristic running and stopping behavior as they forage. They are also known for their alarm calls and aerial displays to defend their territories or distract predators away from their nests.

Breeding: Plovers typically nest on the ground in shallow scrapes lined with pebbles or shells. Some species exhibit complex courtship displays, where males will perform aerial displays or bring food offerings to females to attract a mate. Both parents usually share incubation and chick-rearing responsibilities.

Migration: Many plover species are migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. Some plovers undertake incredible migrations, flying thousands of miles each year to reach their seasonal habitats.

Conservation: Some species of plovers are facing threats such as habitat loss, predation, disturbance, and climate change. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their breeding and stopover sites, managing human activities near their habitats, and monitoring populations to ensure their survival. Plovers are a diverse and fascinating group of shorebirds with unique adaptations for life in various habitats.