• Skip to Content
  • Skip to Main Navigation
  • Skip to Local Navigation
  • Skip to Search
  • Skip to Sitemap
  • Skip to Footer

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 along rocky shores.

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
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

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.

    ×

    Search

    Or Browse Bird Guide by Family, Name or Shape
    ×
    bird image Blue-winged Warbler by Brian Sullivan

    Receive bird news, tips, and information about Lab projects.

    The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. You can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell or give your email address to others.

    ×

    What is your favorite species?

    The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. You can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell or give your email address to others.