Oystercatchers

Oystercatchers are noticeable, sturdy shorebirds with striking black or black-and-white feathers, bright orange-red beaks, and pink legs. There are twelve species found along coasts all over the world, including in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australasia. Their sideways flattened, chisel-like beak is perfectly suited for prising open shellfish and searching for small sea creatures. These noisy birds live on rocky shores, sandy beaches, river mouths, and sometimes in grassy areas near water. Their loud, high-pitched calls are a familiar sound by the coast. Most species fiercely defend their territory during breeding time, making simple nests by scraping the ground on shingle or sand. They fly strongly and directly, showing off bold wing patterns in the black-and-white species.