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Bird Oystercatcher

Oystercatcher - Photo © Copyright 2006 John Chilton
Photo: John Chilton

UK Safari Tip:
Need help identifying wetland birds? Try this beautifully illustrated fold out ID chart - click here

See larger image

Latin name: Haematopus ostralegus

Size: Up to 45cm. Wingspan approx 80cm.

Distribution:
Found all round the coast of the UK.

Months seen: All year

Habitat: Mainly coastal areas, but will also sometimes come inland. Always by water.

Food: Shellfish (mainly cockles) and worms

Special features: The oystercatcher is a large black and white bird with an orange coloured bill and pink legs.

Oystercatchers are sometimes seen with a white chinstrap. This is an indication that the bird is either in it's first summer plumage, or is an adult in winter plumage.

They are very vocal birds, often making a shrill "peep" sound known as 'piping'.


Track Down More Info

UK Safari Bird Section








 © 2006 G. Bradley. All Rights Reserved