ExploreBirds

American Oystercatcher

Haematopus palliatus

The American Oystercatcher is a striking bird with a long, bright orange beak. It loves to live near the coast and is often seen searching for tasty shellfish to eat.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The American Oystercatcher has a large body with a striking black head and neck, a brown back, and a clean white belly. Its most distinctive feature is a long, bright orange-red bill and vibrant yellow eyes with orange eye-rings.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderCharadriiformesFamilyHaematopodidaeGenusHaematopus
American Oystercatcher
feathered trait badgesocial trait badgetool_use trait badgecoastal trait badge
American Oystercatcher

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Many populations often fly in neat V-formations during migration, like tiny airplanes!

Oystercatchers sometimes nest right on the sand, camouflaging their eggs perfectly!

Their bright orange bill takes two years to get its full, awesome color!

They make loud "wheep!" calls that sound like a squeaky toy at the beach!

Special abilities

Ability

Shell Smasher

American Oystercatcher can quickly open shellfish because of its powerful, chisel-like bill that helps them pry apart stubborn shells.

Ability

Shoreline Sprint

American Oystercatcher can run very fast across sandy and muddy shores that helps them chase after prey and escape from danger.

Ability

Eagle Eye

American Oystercatcher has excellent eyesight that helps them spot tiny worms and camouflaged shellfish from a distance.

Measurements & details

Length
42-52 cm
Wingspan
72-83 cm
Weight
0.38-0.7 kg
Lifespan
8-15 years
Top Speed
56 km/h
Clutch Size
2-4
Incubation
24-30 days
Migration Distance
2500 km

Diet & Feeding

They love to eat tasty shellfish and marine worms found on the beach!

Primary Foods

  • Oysters
  • Clams
  • Mussels
  • Marine worms
  • Crabs

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

If you see a bird on the beach, watch it from a distance and don't disturb it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is American Oystercatcher?

42-52 cm

What is American Oystercatcher's wingspan?

72-83 cm

How much does American Oystercatcher weigh?

0.38-0.7 kg

How long does American Oystercatcher live?

8-15 years

How fast can American Oystercatcher move?

56 km/h

What does American Oystercatcher eat?

They love to eat tasty shellfish and marine worms found on the beach!

Where is American Oystercatcher usually found?

Coastal areas

How does American Oystercatcher hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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