European Golden Plover

The European golden plover, Pluvialis apricaria, presents itself as a relatively large plover species, distinguished by its robust build. During the breeding season, adults don a striking plumage that features a white "s"-shaped band extending from the forehead down to the flanks, creating a visual spectacle that is both elegant and distinctive.

Identification Tips

When observing the European golden plover, one may note its slightly longer wings compared to its tail, and the characteristic white band that adorns its head and sides. This feature is particularly prominent and serves as a key identification marker for the species.

Habitat

Breeding primarily in the Arctic tundra and other palearctic locales, the European golden plover favors open landscapes. In winter, it can be found in a variety of open habitats, from European agricultural plains to the short grass meadows of North Africa.

Distribution

The range of this species is quite extensive, with breeding grounds stretching from the western reaches of Iceland, known locally as Heiðlóa, to the central expanses of Siberia. Come winter, large flocks migrate to milder regions, including parts of Europe and North Africa.

Behaviour

The European golden plover is known for its rapid and powerful flight, characterized by regular wingbeats. It is a sociable bird, often seen gathering in large flocks during the non-breeding season.

Song & Calls

The call of the European golden plover is a distinctive, monosyllabic, and slightly descending note that carries a touch of melancholy, often transcribed as "tuu".

Similar Species

The European golden plover is similar in appearance to the American golden plover, Pluvialis dominica, and the Pacific golden plover, Pluvialis fulva. However, it is distinguishable by its larger size, stockier build, and the white axillary feathers visible in flight, as opposed to the grey axillaries of its American and Pacific counterparts.

Diet and Feeding

In the United Kingdom, the diet of golden plover chicks is heavily reliant on Tipulidae, while in Sweden, Bibionidae play a more significant role in their nourishment.

Conservation status

The European golden plover is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN and is one of the species protected under the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA).