Beak of the Week – Black-bellied Plover

The Black-bellied Plover is species of plover that spends its winter along coasts across the United States, Central America, and the Caribbean. On the upper Texas Coast, Black-bellied Plovers are abundant from August through April and less common in the summer. This bird is rather large compared to other plover species and is in fact, the largest plover in North America.

Like other plovers, Black-bellied Plovers have round heads, dark eyes, and short, thick bills. Breeding males have checkered upper wings, a black face, belly, and “armpits”, and a white crown, nape and undertail. Breeding females are similar but with less contrast. Nonbreeding adults have a mottled, brown back and face, with a lighter belly. The black coloration under the wings is present year-round and is the best way to differentiate this species from other larger plovers.

Black-bellied Plovers breed in Arctic-tundra across both North America and Eurasia. Wintering Black-bellied Plovers prefer to use tidal creeks, salt marshes, and shorelines, where they feed on mudflats and beaches. They will often use nearby agricultural fields as well, especially during migration. Black-bellied Plovers eat invertebrate prey, mostly insects, worms, and crustaceans. Their large eyes help them spot prey, even at night, when foraging during lower tide cycles.

Black-bellied Plovers are commonly found on the upper Texas coast throughout the year, and can be particularly abundant during the winter and spring. They are regularly seen at our Bolivar Flats Shorebird Sanctuary, often in large numbers. Come see how many you can spot and see them in action plucking prey out of the sand!