The American avocet is a large wader in the avocet and stilt family, Recurvirostridae, found in North America. It spends much of its time foraging in shallow water or on mud flats, often sweeping its bill from side to side in water as it seeks crustacean and insect prey.
Region
North America
Typical Environment
Breeds across the interior western and central United States and southern Canada, especially around saline or alkaline lakes, prairie wetlands, and marshes. Winters along the Pacific and Gulf coasts, in Mexico, and parts of Central America, frequenting tidal flats, estuaries, and coastal lagoons. Uses interior flyways during migration, stopping at reservoirs, salt ponds, and flooded fields. Prefers shallow, open waters with sparse vegetation and gently sloping shorelines.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The American avocet is a striking wader recognized by its slender, upturned bill and long bluish legs. In breeding plumage, its head and neck turn a warm cinnamon, fading to gray-white in winter. It often forages by sweeping its bill side to side through shallow water, a behavior called scything. Ground-nesting near open shorelines makes it sensitive to water-level changes and disturbance.
John James Audubon's depiction of the American avocet in breeding plumage
Temperament
social and alert
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms loose colonies when nesting and flocks outside the breeding season. Nests are shallow scrapes on open ground near water, with both sexes incubating. Adults perform distraction displays and vocal mobbing to deter intruders. Pairs are seasonal, with courtship involving synchronized preening and bill-dipping.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls are clear, nasal yelps and sharp ‘kleep’ notes, often repeated in series when alarmed. Softer peeping contact calls are used within flocks or between mates near the nest.
