Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria

The Golden Plover, also called Eurasian Golden Plover to distinguish from American and Pacific, breeds in Arctic and temperate Eurasia.

Birds breeding in upland moors and hills in temperate zones (eg UK) form large flocks on coastal marshes in winter, joined by migrants from the north.

Golden Plovers have a thin white wingbar in flight and white underwings (they do not have the black "armpits" of the Grey Plover).

The back/wing plumage is more golden than the Grey Plover. Breeding plumage includes a black face, chest and belly, stronger on males. Winter plumage reverts to a pale face, chest and belly.

The huge flocks take flight when startled (often by a bird of prey passing over).

Golden Plover size comparison