Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres)

Identification & Behavior: ~22.5 cm (9 in).  The Ruddy Turnstone has an ornate alternate plumage. The back is chestnut and the head and breast have an intricate black and white pattern. The legs are short and orange. The basic plumage is a gray dull version of the alternate plumage.  It favors sandy beaches and rocky shores. It is unmistakable in all plumage stages but see the Killdeer and Semipalmated Plover.

Status: The Ruddy Turnstone is a common Boreal Migrant during the months of September through April and rare throughout the rest of the year as some birds overwinter in South America. It is found mostly along the coast of Peru. It also occurs in Co, Ec, Br, and Ch.

Name in Spanish: Vuelvepiedras Rojizo.

Sub-species: Ruddy Turnstone (Arenaria interpres morinella), Linnaeus 1766.

Meaning of Name: Arenaria= L. harena, arenarius, arenaria = concerning the sand, one who inhabits the sand. interpres= L. messenger.

See more of the Family Scolopacidae