Andean Avocet

The Andean avocet, Recurvirostra andina, presents a striking figure with its white head, neck, underparts, and rump contrasted against a dark brown back, wings, and tail. This bird, slightly bulkier than its relative the American avocet, measures 43–48 cm in length and weighs between 315–410 g, with an average mass of 361 g, possibly making it the heaviest member of the Recurvirostridae family. Its grey legs, though not as elongated as those of other avocets, support its robust frame, while the long, thin, and characteristically upturned black bill is a defining feature.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Andean avocet, look for the unique combination of its white and dark brown plumage, the upturned bill, and the shorter grey legs. The bird's size and heft are also distinguishing characteristics within its family.

Habitat

This avocet favors the high-altitude environments of the Andes, where it is often found near shallow, preferably alkaline lakes, a habitat that provides the conditions necessary for its survival and breeding.

Distribution

The Andean avocet is a resident species, making its home in the Andean regions above 3500 meters, with its range extending across northwestern Argentina, western Bolivia, northern Chile, and southern Peru.

Behaviour

A non-migratory bird, the Andean avocet may descend to slightly lower altitudes outside of the breeding season. It is known to nest in small groups, and its breeding activities include laying eggs as early as January. When foraging, this avocet is often seen sweeping its bill from side to side in the water or on mud flats, a behavior indicative of its search for crustacean and insect prey.

Breeding

Breeding occurs at high altitudes near shallow lakes, with egg-laying recorded in at least January. The social aspects of their breeding, such as group nesting, are noted.

Similar Species

The Andean avocet can be confused with the local subspecies of black-winged stilt, Himantopus himantopus melanurus, which shares a similar color pattern. However, the stilt can be differentiated by its very long red legs, white tail, and straight bill.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Andean avocet consists of crustaceans and insects, which it adeptly captures by sweeping its bill through shallow waters or across mud flats.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Andean avocet as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.