The American golden plover is a medium-sized plover. The genus name is Latin and means relating to rain, from pluvia, "rain". It was believed that golden plovers flocked when rain was imminent. The species name dominica refers to Santo Domingo, now Hispaniola, in the West Indies.
Region
Americas
Typical Environment
Breeds on dry, sparsely vegetated Arctic tundra across Alaska and northern Canada. During migration it passes through interior North America, often favoring open fields, prairies, and mudflats. In winter it occurs widely in South America, especially the grasslands and agricultural landscapes of the Pampas and campos. Compared with many shorebirds, it is frequently found inland rather than strictly along coasts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3500 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The American golden plover is a remarkable long-distance migrant, capable of nonstop transoceanic flights between the Arctic and South America. Its genus name relates to rain (Latin pluvia), reflecting the old belief that flocks foretold wet weather. In breeding plumage it shows striking gold-flecked upperparts and bold black underparts bordered by a white stripe.
Temperament
wary and alert
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats; capable of sustained long-distance flights
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season, it forms loose flocks that may mix with other shorebirds. Breeding pairs are typically monogamous, nesting on the ground in a shallow scrape lined with vegetation. Chicks are precocial and leave the nest shortly after hatching, feeding themselves under parental watch.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Gives clear, whistled calls, often a plaintive tuu-eee or queet that carries over open tundra and fields. Vocalizations increase during display flights on the breeding grounds and during migratory movement.
