Killdeer

Birds / Shorebirds & Gulls

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The Killdeer is a plover that is often found far from the shoreline, using short grass, bare ground, gravel, and even developed areas. Two dark breast bands and a loud, repeated call help distinguish it. It searches for insects and other small animals with a characteristic sequence of quick runs and abrupt stops. Its nest is a simple scrape on open ground. Adults may use a dramatic distraction display to draw potential threats away from eggs or chicks.

Reference: Cornell Lab of Ornithology: All About Birds