Common Ringed Plover - Chris Bale
Where and when to see: Platte Saline Beach from May to July
Latin name: Charadrius hiaticula
With a wingspan of 35-41cm and at 17-19cm long the Ringed Plover has a small, stocky appearance. Their underside is white and their wings and back are brownish-grey. In flight they have a very noticeable white wing bar. Their orange legs and orange beaks, with black tip, are their most striking features. They nest on gravelly or sandy patches near the sea or lakes. If their nest is threatened they will walk away and carry their wing as if it is broken to appear injured and easy prey to the predator. Once the predator chases them they fly uninjured and away from the nest.
Status in Alderney: Rare Breeder
Status in UK (RSPB Criteria): Amber
Worldwide Status (IUCN Red List and Population Trend): Least Concern; Decreasing