Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus)
A rarely spotted, large wading bird, breeding around Montreal. This species mostly eats insects, foraging in open fields with short vegetation. The species migrates South in autumn.
- ๐ซ๐ท Pluvier kildir
- ๐ฉ๐ช Keilschwanz-Regenpfeifer
- ๐ฒ๐ฝ Chorlo gritรณn, Chorlitejo colirrojo
Characteristics
- Length: 25-30cm
- Weight: 90-130g
- Wingspan: 40-45cm
How to Identify
This species has a very unique look and is easy to identify. Upper parts are mostly brown, the head with patches of white and black. Belly and breasts are white.
Click on photo to enlarge.
Where and When to Spot
I spotted this species the first time on an artificially levelled platform near Technopark. My observations and video recordings have been done in Parc Michel-Chartrand though. When exploring breeding grounds be careful where you step!
Observations by Park and Season
Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
---|---|---|---|---|
Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | - | - |
"-" indicates no observation. It may not necessarily mean though that the species is absent from the park during that season.
Species Biology, Behavior, and Ecology
Explore detailed insights into the biology, behavior, and ecology of Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus). Click on a question to reveal the answer.
Is the Killdeer an endangered species?
No, this species is not considered an endangered species. In fact, it is quite common throughout North and Central America. It is actually considered one of the most widespread and familiar shorebirds in North America.
Is the Killdeer native to North America?
Yes, it is. This bird species is naturally established in North America and is commonly found throughout the continent. It breeds in various habitats, including open fields, meadows, shores, and agricultural areas.
Is the Killdeer a migratory bird?
Yes. While some individuals may remain in their breeding range year-round, many Killdeers migrate south for the winter. They breed in the north and migrate to southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean for the winter.
Is the Killdeer mostly found in forests?
No. This species typically inhabits open habitats such as fields, meadows, shores, agricultural areas, and sometimes even urban areas. It prefers open areas with short vegetation where it can forage for insects and other small invertebrates.
Is the Killdeer easy to identify?
Yes, the Killdeer is relatively easy to identify. This species has several distinctive features like size and shape being a medium sized shorebird with relatively long legs, coloration with its brownish-grey back, white underparts and two black bands across their breast.
Is the Killdeer a vocal bird?
Yes, it is even named after its distinctive vocalization. The Killdeer is often heard calling while in flight or while foraging on the ground. Its vocalizations serve various purposes, including communication between mates, warning calls to alert others of potential threats.
Has the Killdeer any predators?
Yes, this species has several predators, as eggs, hatchlings and as adults. Some of the common predators of Killdeer eggs and chicks include birds of prey, mammals like foxes, raccoons, skunks and coyotes, snakes and domestic pets such as cats and dogs.
Does the Killdeer exhibit sexual dimorphism?
Yes, this species exhibits sexual dimorphism although subtle and difficult to spot in the field. The most notable difference is in size, with males being slightly larger than females. Additionally, in some individuals, the male's breast bands may be darker and thicker compared to the female's.
Is the Killdeer a ground nesting bird?
Yes, this bird species typically nests in open areas such as fields, meadows, agricultural fields, gravel rooftops, and even parking lots. The nest is a simple scrape in the ground lined with small stones, pebbles, or other debris.
Are both parents of Killdeer involved in parenting?
Yes, both parents share the responsibilities of incubating the eggs and caring for the chicks after they hatch. Additionally, both parents may use distraction displays, such as the broken-wing act, to lead potential threats away from their nest or chicks.
Is the Killdeer well studied in the field of animal behavior?
Yes. It is a common and widespread species, making it relatively easy for researchers to study. In particular, Killdeers exhibit interesting behaviors such as their broken-wing display, which they use to distract predators from their nest or chicks.
Is the Killdeer popular among wildlife enthusiasts?
Yes, this species is popular among wildlife enthusiasts, especially birdwatchers. The reasons for its popularity are widespread distribution, urban adaptability, distinctive appearance and interesting behaviors.