Black-bellied Plover
Learn to identify the Black-bellied Plover by ear. Master the "kooodleeooo" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Black-bellied Plover sounds like
A high, plaintive cry rises into a drawn-out purr-reee. This alarm call is distinct from the male’s breeding display song.
How to tell it apart
Where you'll hear it
Long-distance migrant. Breeds in the high Arctic of North America and Eurasia; winters along coastlines worldwide, including North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Breeds in lowland tundra habitats, never in high mountainous areas, though they do use ridges and foothills. Winters primarily in coastal habitats including mudflats, beaches, and occasionally rocky shorelines. Roosts at high tide on beaches, in saltmarsh, and sometimes in upland habitats like farm fields.
Breeds in Arctic during brief summer. Migrates south in fall, with some individuals traveling extremely long distances. Winters along coastlines, following tidal cycles for feeding. Returns to breeding grounds in late spring.
How to recognize it by sight
A chunky, large-headed shorebird with a short, thick bill. Has long, pointed wings and moderately long legs. Breeding males display a dazzling mix of snow white and jet black, accented by checkerboard wings. Females in breeding plumage are similar but with less contrast. Supreme aerialists, both agile and swift.
Similar species
American Golden-Plover
Smaller with more slender build, longer legs, and golden-speckled upperparts. Lacks black axillaries in flight.
Pacific Golden-Plover
Smaller with more slender build and golden-speckled upperparts. Lacks black axillaries in flight.
Killdeer
Has two black breast bands instead of solid black belly. Longer-tailed with distinctive behavior and calls.