Pluvialis

Pluvialis dominica1

Rohkunborri Pluvialis Apricaria

Pluvialis apricaria -Iceland-8

Pluvialis fulva

Pluvialis fulva 4 - Boat Harbour

Pluvialis dominica1

Pluvialis is a genus of birds in the plover family, Charadriidae. Members of this genus are known for their distinctive plumage and are commonly referred to as golden plovers. These birds are medium-sized waders found in various habitats ranging from arctic and subarctic tundras to fields and shores across the world. The genus Pluvialis is notable for its migratory behavior, with species undertaking long-distance flights to wintering grounds in warmer regions.

Species

The genus Pluvialis includes four species:

• The Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva), which breeds in Siberia and western Alaska and winters in the Pacific, including islands such as Hawaii.
• The American Golden-Plover (Pluvialis dominica), which breeds in northern Canada and Alaska and winters in South America.
• The Eurasian Golden-Plover (Pluvialis apricaria), found across Europe and Asia, wintering in southern Europe and parts of Africa and Asia.
• The Grey Plover (Pluvialis squatarola), also known as the Black-bellied Plover in North America, has a circumpolar distribution in its breeding range and winters along coasts in many parts of the world.

Description

Pluvialis plovers are characterized by their round bodies, short tails, and relatively long legs. During the breeding season, they exhibit striking plumage with black and gold patterns on their backs and white or black underparts, depending on the species. In winter, their plumage becomes more subdued, with greyish tones dominating. These birds are adept at foraging, feeding on a variety of invertebrates and, occasionally, plant material.

Behavior

1. 1. 1. Migration###

Pluvialis species are known for their impressive migratory patterns, covering thousands of kilometers between their breeding and wintering grounds. Migration routes and strategies vary among species, with some performing non-stop flights over open ocean.

1. 1. 1. Breeding###

Breeding typically occurs in the spring and early summer. Pluvialis plovers are ground-nesters, laying their eggs in simple scrapes. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs and caring for the young. Their cryptic plumage helps protect them from predators during this vulnerable period.

1. 1. 1. Feeding###

These birds forage primarily by sight, picking invertebrates from the ground or water's surface. Their diet includes insects, worms, and other small creatures, which they hunt using their sharp vision and quick movements.

Conservation

The conservation status of Pluvialis species varies. While some populations are stable, others face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting critical habitat areas, especially breeding and wintering sites, and monitoring population trends to ensure the survival of these remarkable birds.