Species BirdsRuddy Turnstone

Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres

CommonBird
Illustration of Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres)

The Ruddy Turnstone is a stocky, boldly patterned shorebird that uses its short, stout, slightly upturned bill to flip and overturn pebbles, shells, and seaweed to expose the invertebrates beneath — behavior that gives it its name. Its harlequin pattern of black, white, rufous, and orange is spectacular in breeding plumage. It is one of the most widespread shorebirds in the world.

Habitat
Rocky and sandy coastlines, beaches, and tidal areas
Diet
Invertebrates under rocks and seaweed, horseshoe crab eggs
How common
Common

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