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Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres ORDER: CHARADRIIFORMES FAMILY: SCOLOPACIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

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

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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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Field MarksHelp

  • Adult breeding
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    Ruddy Turnstone

    Adult breeding
    • © Kevin T. Karlson, Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, June 2000
  • Adult nonbreeding
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    Ruddy Turnstone

    Adult nonbreeding
    • © William L. Newton / CLO

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.