Key information
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.
What they eat:
Insects and worms/
Measurements:
- Length:
- 20-22cm
- Wingspan:
- 57-64cm
- Weight:
- 90-145g
Population:
- UK breeding:
- 510-750 males
Identifying features:
This bird species has different identifying features depending on sex/age/season.
Dotterel (adult)
Dotterel (juvenile)
