Rare in B.C., even in the best habitats in Boundary Bay, however two records exists in our checklist area. Breeding in the northern tundra, they migrate mainly east of the Rockies traveling as far as middle South America. Occupies the same type of habitat as Black-bellied Plovers and are most likely to be found in their company.

Similar species:
Smaller size, shorter bill and brighter back than our more common Black-bellied Plover. American Golden-Plover in breeding colours has black undertail coverts and lacks the black 'arm pits' found under the wings of the Black-bellied Plover. The black 'arm pits' on the Black-bellied Plover are displayed by both male and female and in all plumages. A Pacific Golden-Plover is even more uncommon in B.C. and would be difficult, especially in non breeding plumage, to tell apart from the American Golden Plover. Pacific Golden-Plover tends to be even more golden but the best identifying feature are the wings. A perched American will show four primary feathers while a Pacific will show three primaries extending beyond the tertial feathers. (see photos below)

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, D. 2000

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