Stilts and avocets · Shorebirds
Black-winged Stilt
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Himantopus himantopus
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Voice
Call
Alarm
Call
How to recognize it
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33–36 cm long; very long pink legs
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Long, thin, straight black bill
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Black back and wings, white head and underparts; adult males often with a green sheen on the back, females with a brownish back
About the species
At the water’s edge, a largely white head and neck and white underside contrast with a dark back and black wings. Long pink-red legs extend well below the body, and a straight, slender black bill points forward. Males often show a green sheen on the back, while females’ backs have a brown cast.
It wades out from the edge to forage in deeper water. Its usual call is a repeated "kyuk-kyuk"; when alarmed, it gives a louder "krit-krit."
It uses open wetlands with fresh, brackish or salty water, from steppe waters to lagoons and salt pans. Small insects and their larvae make up most of its food. Some populations migrate for winter to Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia, while those in warmer regions may stay year-round or move only short distances.
Where to find
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At open fresh, brackish or salt waters, look for a Black-winged Stilt walking through the shallows in search of small insects and larvae.
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At lagoons and saltworks, watch for one searching for food in deeper water — its long legs let it wade farther in.
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During the breeding season, look for a low nest made of grass and twigs in marshes or beside small lakes.
