Conservation status: Amber
This medium-sized member of the plover family is unusual in that the adult female is brighter than the male - an indication of their role-reversal in raising the young. Adults have largely grey-brown upperparts and bright chestnut belly, with a white chest band, throat and eyestripe, the latter contrasting with a dark cap. On spring migration they are often seen in groups, or 'trips', at traditional stopping places.
Latin name
Charadrius morinellus
Family
Plovers and lapwings (Charadriidae)
Where to see them
In summer found only on Scotland's high tops. Best looked for on spring and autumn migration. Spring groups are usually seen at traditional stopping points, especially in Eastern England.
When to see them
They arrive from mid-April to mid-May and leave breeding areas in July and August. Autumn passage birds are usually seen in August and September.
What they eat
Insects and worms
Population
| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* | | - | 510-750 males | - | - |