photo by NEBRASKAland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Charadrius montanus
L 9″(23 cm).

Song or calls:
Harsh “krrrr” in flight.

Description: Sexes similar. Lack of breast bands is distinctive. Sandy brown above and white below. Small black crown patch and black eyeline offset by white forehead and eyebrow. Show white underwings in flight. Winter plumage shows extensive buffy tinge on breast, pale unspotted underparts, and pale legs.

Habitat: Short-grass plains. Sometimes found on sandy flats with some brush or cacti. Prefers to nest in exposed locations, often on bare ground.

Where in Nebraska: Rare spring and fall migrant and summer resident in extreme western part of state. Breeding records for Kimball County, Nebraska.

Status: The nesting habitat of this bird has been greatly reduced due to its prairie habitat being turned into croplands.

Fun Facts: Despite it’s name, not associated with mountains, hills, or even water. 

(click image for larger view)