Eurasian Oystercatcher

Oystercatchers 👁 460 views Updated 2026-11-01

Eurasian Oystercatcher (<em>Haematopus ostralegus</em>) is a species of Oystercatchers (<em>Haematopodidae</em>) in the order Shorebirds, Gulls and Alcids.

Overview

Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) is a species of Oystercatchers (Haematopodidae) in the order Shorebirds, Gulls and Alcids. A striking black-and-white wader with a long orange-red bill, named for prying open shellfish; probes mussels and cockles on rocky and sandy shores; gives loud piping calls; a flagship of coastal wetlands.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Haematopus; binomial: Haematopus ostralegus; authority: Linnaeus, 1758. Typical size: 39-45cm. Average lifespan: 10-20 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Palearctic. Non-breeding range: coastal AF, OR.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.

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