Near Threatened

A large, striking shorebird, about 40–45 cm in length; easily recognized by its black-and-white plumage, bright orange-red bill, pinkish legs, and red eyes.

Breeds across northern Europe and Asia; highly migratory in colder regions, while some coastal populations are resident year-round.

Winters along coasts of western Europe, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, including India’s coastal areas.

April to July, depending on latitude; monogamous pairs return to traditional nesting territories.

Nests in open coastal habitats — beaches, sand dunes, saltmarshes, and rocky shores — usually a shallow scrape on the ground, sometimes lined with shells or pebbles.

Found along coastal mudflats, estuaries, tidal shores, and sandy beaches; occasionally forages in inland wetlands and flooded fields during migration.

Feeds mainly on mollusks (especially mussels and cockles), using its strong bill to pry them open; also eats worms, crustaceans, and insects.