Beach Stone-curlew

The Beach Stone-curlew, known scientifically as Esacus magnirostris, is a formidable presence along the coastal regions it inhabits. With a stature of 55 cm (22 in) and a weight tipping the scales at around 1 kg (2.2 lb), it stands as one of the largest shorebirds in the world. The males, on average, weigh slightly more at 1,032 g (2.275 lb), while females typically weigh around 1,000 g (2.2 lb). This species holds the distinction of being the heaviest living member of the Charadriiformes, save for those in the gull and skua families.

Identification Tips

The Beach Stone-curlew can be identified by its deliberate movements and occasional short runs when foraging. It is less nocturnal than its relatives, sometimes seen in daylight. Observers should note its wary nature, as it tends to take flight upon disturbance, showcasing slow, rather stiff wingbeats.

Habitat

This bird favors undisturbed open beaches, exposed reefs, mangroves, and tidal sand or mudflats. Such environments provide the Beach Stone-curlew with the necessary conditions for its lifestyle and breeding habits.

Distribution

The Beach Stone-curlew has a broad range that includes coastal eastern Australia, extending as far south as eastern Victoria, the northern Australian coast, nearby islands, New Guinea, New Caledonia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. However, it is considered uncommon across most of its range and is deemed rare south of Cairns.

Behaviour

The Beach Stone-curlew exhibits less strictly nocturnal behavior compared to other stone-curlews. It can be observed foraging by daylight, moving slowly and deliberately, with occasional short runs. It is known for its wariness, often flying off into the distance ahead of an observer.

Breeding

Breeding for the Beach Stone-curlew involves laying a single egg just above the high tide line on the open beach. This strategy leaves the egg vulnerable to predation and human disturbance, a factor that contributes to the species' conservation status.

Conservation Status

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species classifies the Beach Stone-curlew as Near Threatened, indicating that the species faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future.