Recurvirostridae

Black-necked Stilt

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Banded stilts 2 Governors Lake Rotto email

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Black-winged stilt (Himantopus himantopus)

1 (83) Pied Stilt (Himantopus leucocephalus)

Himantopus melanurus 4

Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus), Corte Madera

Recurvirostridae is a family of birds within the order Charadriiformes, which is known for its diversity of shorebirds and waders. The family Recurvirostridae includes species such as avocets and stilts, which are distinguished by their long legs and uniquely shaped bills. These birds are found in a variety of wetland habitats around the world, from shallow freshwater environments to saline lakes and coastal mudflats.

Characteristics

Members of the Recurvirostridae family exhibit several distinctive characteristics. They have long, thin legs that are well adapted to wading in shallow waters. Their bills are another notable feature; avocets have upcurved bills, while stilts possess straight, thin bills. These adaptations allow them to feed on small invertebrates, which they often capture by sweeping their bills through the water or mud.

The plumage of Recurvirostridae species is typically black and white, with variations in pattern and shading among different species. These birds are also known for their elegant appearance and graceful movements, both in flight and while foraging on the ground.

Habitat and Distribution

Recurvirostridae species are widely distributed across the globe, inhabiting a range of wetland environments. They are found on every continent except Antarctica. Their habitats include freshwater marshes, lakes, rivers, and coastal mudflats, where they can be seen foraging for food. These birds are migratory, with many species traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.

Behavior

Birds in the Recurvirostridae family are social and are often seen in flocks, especially during migration and in their wintering areas. They breed in colonies, with some species constructing nests on the ground near water. Their diet primarily consists of aquatic invertebrates, which they skillfully extract from mud or water using their specialized bills.

Conservation

The conservation status of Recurvirostridae species varies. While some species are common and widespread, others face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are in place for several species, focusing on habitat protection and restoration to ensure their survival.

Notable Species

- The Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus) is known for its striking black and white plumage and extremely long red legs. - The American Avocet (Recurvirostra americana) features a distinctive upcurved bill and a bold black and white pattern on its wings.

See Also

- Charadriiformes - Wetland - Bird migration