Ruddy Turnstone

Overview

The ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres) is a small, highly migratory wading bird in the sandpiper family Scolopacidae. It breeds in northern latitudes of Eurasia and North America before flying south to winter on coastlines almost worldwide.

Identification

• A fairly small and stocky bird, 22–24 cm long, with a dark, wedge-shaped bill that is slightly upturned.
• Bright orange legs and short stature help distinguish it from other shorebirds.
• Plumage is dominated by a harlequin-like pattern of brown, black, and white; breeding birds have reddish-brown upper parts and a white head with black streaks.
• In flight, reveals a white wingbar, white patch near the wing base, and white lower back, rump, and tail.
• Has a staccato, rattling call and a chattering alarm-call used mainly during the breeding season.

Habitat

Breeds in open tundra usually a few kilometres from the sea in Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores, breakwaters, jetties, and occasionally inland wetlands during migration.

Diet

Feeds mainly on invertebrates such as crustaceans, molluscs, worms, insects, and spiders, though it also consumes carrion, eggs, and plant material. It forages by flipping over stones and objects to uncover hidden prey, digging in sand or mud, and using various probing techniques to extract food.

Did you know?

Ruddy turnstones are among the longest-lived wader species, with an average lifespan of nine years and the longest recorded at 20 years. They are also notably faithful to wintering locations, with 95% of birds returning to the same area the following autumn.