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The black-bellied plover breeds in northwestern Alaska and Arctic Canada and winters along coasts from British Columbia and Massachusetts southward, but can also be seen inland. It is most often seen during the winter or in migration, when it may lack its bold black underparts, but it is still conspicuous among its usual companions, the smaller plovers, turnstones, and sandpipers.
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Black-bellied Plover
Pluvialis squatarola
At-a-Glance
• Incubation: 26-27 days
• Clutch Size: 4 eggs
• Young Fledge: 35-45 days after hatching
• Typical Foods: aquatic invertebrates
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Description
These gorgeous plovers are unmistakable in spring, when they are decked out in showy alternate plumage - checkered white and black above, and jet black below. Fall birds are a different story; they closely resemble fall American golden-plovers. Among other differences, black-bellied plovers always have black axillars, which is the area under the wing where it meets the body -- the "armpit."
Habitat and Habits
Spring migrants often use flooded agricultural fields, but large open mudflats are preferred. This species gives an ethereal, haunting three-note whistle, often delivered from high on the wing and carrying long distances.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
The nest is a shallow depression in the ground lined with moss, lichens, and grass. |
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