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Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: SCOLOPACIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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Ruddy Turnstone Photo

© Kevin T. Karlson

A stocky, brightly patterned shorebird, the Ruddy Turnstone can be seen actively pecking, probing, and flipping over stones alony rocky shores.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Shorebirds
Shorebirds
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Stocky, medium-sized shorebird.
  • Short, dark bill fairly thick with a slight upturn.
  • Short, orange legs.
  • Black-and-white (or gray) clown-like pattern on face.
  • Bold white-and-dark wing pattern visible in flight.
  • White lower back.
  • White tail with black terminal band.
  • Bright reddish sides in breeding plumage.

Immature Description

Resembles winter adult, but slightly more brownish overall with paler head.

Range Map Help

Ruddy Turnstone Range Map
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Similar Species

  • Black Turnstone of West Coast has similar wing pattern, but has black legs, lacks any red in plumage, and does not have the intricate face pattern.