Uncommon and local in British Columbia where it does breed mainly in the southern interior of the Province. A large, distinct shorebird boldly patterned in black and white with an upturned bill. Breeding adults have rusty coloured heads and neck. Non-breeding adults and juveniles have paler grey heads and necks. Encountered in our checklist area during migration months. Only five documented records to date. Migrates south to Mexico but has overwintered on the coast in the past on a few occasions. Feeds by wading in shallow water and sweeping its bill back and forth through the water to capture mainly aquatic invertebrates.

Similar species:
Quite distinct and eye-catching!

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Ministry of Environment, British Columbia

Back to Species List
Back to Top
Back to Home