avocet

Avocets are wading birds in the genus Recurvirostra, belonging to the family Recurvirostridae. The two extant species are the pied avocet (Recurvirostra avocetta) and the American avocet (Recurvirostra americana). The pied avocet breeds across southern Europe, northern Africa, and parts of Asia, with wintering grounds extending to warmer regions. The American avocet breeds in North America and migrates to coastal regions in winter.

They are medium-sized birds, typically about 40 to 50 centimeters in length, with long legs and a distinctive upturned bill. Plumage differs between the species: the pied avocet has a striking black-and-white pattern on the wings and head, while the American avocet is generally pale gray with a cinnamon-colored neck and chest. Both species have a white underbody and a slim, elegant silhouette when wading.

Avocets inhabit shallow wetlands, mudflats, saline lagoons, and estuaries, where they feed primarily on aquatic invertebrates. They forage by sweeping their upturned bill from side to side through the water to detect prey such as crustaceans, insects, and small mollusks. Breeding involves constructing a simple scrape on mud near water, where a clutch of typically three to five eggs is laid and incubated by both parents.

Conservation status for both species is generally listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though local populations can be affected by habitat loss, disturbance, and pollution. Avocets are valued for their graceful appearance and characteristic foraging behavior in wetland ecosystems.