Kentish Plover

The Kentish plover (Anarhynchus alexandrinus) is a small shorebird with a widespread range, encompassing coastal regions across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, with some populations reaching as far as Southeast Asia. It measures around 15–17 cm (5.9-6.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 42–45 cm (16.5-17.7 in). This species is characterized by its pale sandy-brown upperparts and white underparts. It has a distinctive dark patch on the sides of its neck and a short, straight bill. Males often have a rufous crown, and more pronounced dark patches on the forehead and behind the eyes during the breeding season, while females and non-breeding males tend to be overall browner. The Kentish plover is commonly confused with the similar-looking white-faced plover (Anarhynchus dealbatus), but it can be distinguished by the presence of a more prominent dark ear patch, and darker legs.

The Kentish plover predominantly inhabits coastal environments such as sandy shores, estuaries, and mudflats, though it can also be found inland near salt pans and freshwater lakes. It feeds primarily on invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and marine worms, which it forages by running along the ground and picking from the surface. The bird’s feeding strategy involves quick, short bursts of movement, followed by sudden stops to seize prey.

Kentish plovers exhibit partial migratory behavior. While some populations in warmer regions are resident year-round, others undertake seasonal migrations. Birds breeding in Europe and Central Asia typically migrate to Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia during the non-breeding season. Migration usually occurs between late summer and early autumn, with return flights to breeding grounds in the spring. The distance covered can be considerable, with some individuals traveling thousands of kilometers.

The breeding season for the Kentish plover generally occurs from April to July, depending on the location. These birds are ground-nesters, often choosing open, sparsely vegetated areas such as sandy beaches or salt flats for nesting. The nest is a simple scrape in the ground, sometimes lined with small pebbles or shells. Clutch size typically ranges from 2 to 4 eggs, which are cryptically colored to blend in with the surrounding substrate. Both parents share incubation duties, which last approximately 24 to 28 days. The chicks are precocial, meaning they are born with their eyes open and are able to leave the nest shortly after hatching. They fledge about 25 to 30 days later, though they remain dependent on the parents for some time thereafter.

The Kentish plover is currently listed as least concern by the IUCN, but certain populations are facing threats due to habitat loss, human disturbance, and predation. Coastal development, tourism, and pollution have significantly impacted their breeding and foraging habitats, leading to local declines in some areas. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and managing human activities in critical breeding and wintering sites.