The White-backed Stilt is a striking wader with long, slender legs that give it a graceful appearance. Its name comes from the bold white plumage on its back, which contrasts sharply with the black feathers on its wings, head, and neck. This bird also has a long, thin black bill, perfectly adapted for probing in shallow waters. The eyes are red, adding to its distinctive look.
This bird is considered to be a subspecies of the Black-winged Stilt by some taxonomic authorities.
White-backed Stilts are usually found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow lakes across South America. They forage in these areas, feeding on small invertebrates like insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. They are often seen wading through the water, using their long legs to navigate the shallow depths while searching for food.
These stilts are social birds, often forming flocks, especially during migration. They are also known for their vocalizations, frequently communicating with each other through a variety of calls. During the breeding season, they create nests on the ground near water, using vegetation to build a simple, yet effective structure to protect their eggs.
Among the ten total global species of avocets and stilts, wading birds that are members of the Recurvirostridae family, there are a lot of interesting information and fascinating facts. Following our Amazing Adaptations post, here are some more facts about these long-legged birds. Read more »
Stilts and Avocets are the only birds in the family Recurvirostridae. We'll be highlighting them on the Birdorable blog this week. Since Recurvirostridae Week is a mouthful, we're calling it Avocet & Stilt Week. These fascinating wading birds are often found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow water... Read more »
