Snowy Plover
photo by Phil Swanson
Charadrius alexandrinus
L 6 1/4″(16 cm).
Song or calls:
Low-pitched “krut” and soft “ku-wheet” whistle.
Description: Sexes similar except male has darker black markings. Pale gray above and white below. Incomplete breast band and eye-line. Small black patch on crown. Thin bill and feet are black. Juvenile lacks black markings.
Habitat: Mudflats, alkaline flats, sandy shorelines, and shallow ponds are utilized by migrants.
Where in Nebraska: Rare spring and fall migrant. Sightings in several parts of the state including in Lancaster, Antelope, Adams, Lincoln, Phelps, and Keith Counties.
Fun Facts: Snowy Plovers will often raise two broods a year and depending on the length of the breeding season will raise three broods, each with a different male.
