Home › Aves › Haematopodidae › Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
SPECIES PROFILE
Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
Haematopus
IUCN STATUS
Least Concern
CONSERVATION STATUS
Least Concern
CLASS
Aves
GEOGRAPHICAL RANGE
Europe, coasts
DIET
Carnivorous
HABITAT
Coasts, estuaries
🔬 Classification
PHYLUM
Chordata
CLASS
Aves
ORDER
Charadriiformes
FAMILY
Haematopodidae
GENUS
Haematopus
📋 Description
SIZE
40-45 cm body length, wingspan 80-86 cm, 300-600 g
COLORATION
Black head & back, white belly, red bill & legs
ADAPTATIONS
Strong bill for opening shellfish
🌿 Ecology
HABITAT
Coasts, estuaries
DIET
Carnivorous
GEOGRAPHIC RANGE
Europe, coasts
REPRODUCTION
2-4 eggs, 1 brood per year
DIET DETAILS
Shellfish, worms
⚠️ Threats & Conservation
PRIMARY THREATS
Habitat loss, disturbance
💡 Interesting Facts
1
The Eurasian Oystercatcher has a bright red bill and loud piping call. It uses its strong bill to open shellfish.
2
It is a common sight on rocky and sandy shores.
🔭 Sighting Guide
📍 BEST PLACES TO SIGHT
Norfolk Coast UK
🗓️ BEST TIME TO SIGHT
Year-round
🎯 SIGHTING TIPS
Look for black & white waders with red bills on coasts.
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