killdeer bird
1. Bird Name
The bird in question is popularly known as the Killdeer. In the realm of scientific classification, it is known as Charadrius vociferus.
2. Appearance
The Killdeer is a fascinating specimen with distinctive visual characteristics starting with its large round head, big eye surrounded by a thick black ring, and short orange bill. It sports a ruddy-brown back and wings, with two black bands around its white chest and belly. This creates stark contrasting markings that set it apart from other species. It’s also worth noting the vibrant orange rump that is visible during flight. The adult females and males look strikingly similar, with no major variations in color or pattern.
3. Size
Killdeers are about the size of a large robin, measuring around 20-28cm (8-11 inches) in length. The wingspan differs slightly, ranging from 46 to 48 cm (18 to 19 inches) on average. As for weight, these birds are quite light, weighing between 72 and 121 grams (2.5 to 4.3 ounces).
4. Habitat & Distribution
A versatile bird, the Killdeer can be found across an array of environments. It is most common in North and South America, spanning from the subarctic regions of Alaska and Canada all the way to the South of Peru and Argentina. Though they prefer open areas, Killdeers are just as likely to be spotted in human-populated areas such as golf courses, athletic fields, and parking lots.
5. Interesting Facts
One remarkable characteristic of the Killdeer is its “broken wing” act, where it behaves injured to lure predators away from its nest. It is also one of the few birds that exhibit the ability to recognize its own eggs. Furthermore, it does not migrate like other birds, but those in colder regions might move south during winter to avoid freezing temperatures.
6. Diet
In general, the Killdeer subsists on a diet primarily consisting of invertebrates. This includes insects, spiders, centipedes, snails, and worms. Occasionally, they will also snack on seeds and small fruits.
7. Behavior & Sounds
The Killdeer’s name comes from its call, a loud, shrill ‘kill-deer’ or ‘kill-dee.’ They are most active during dusk and dawn and are often seen in mating pairs or small flocks. They are known for their flight pattern, which includes a rapid wingbeat followed by a short glide. Their nests are scarcely more than a depression in the ground, lined with pebbles or leaves.
8. Conservation Status
The conservation status of the Killdeer is of ‘Least Concern’ according to the IUCN Red List. This is mainly due to their widespread distribution and large populations.
9. Lifespan
On average, the Killdeer’s lifespan in the wild ranges between 3 to 11 years. Their survival is often threatened by predators, harsh winters, and human disruption of nesting sites.
10. Additional Notes
Despite their penchant for open fields, Killdeers have adapted remarkably well to human-occupied environments. They play an essential role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. In Spanish, they are called ‘chorlito sabanero,’ and in French, they are known as ‘Pluvier kildir.’
