The American oystercatcher, occasionally called the American pied oystercatcher, is a member of family Haematopodidae. Originally called the "sea pie", it was renamed in 1731 when naturalist Mark Catesby claimed that he had observed the bird eating oysters. The current population of American oystercatchers is estimated to be 43,000. There are estimated to be 1,500 breeding pairs along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the US. The bird is marked by its black and white body and a long, thick orange beak.
Region
Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the Americas and the Caribbean
Typical Environment
Typically found on ocean shorelines, barrier islands, tidal flats, estuaries, saltmarsh edges, and oyster reefs. Breeds on sparsely vegetated sandy beaches, shell rakes, and dredge-spoil islands just above the high-tide line. Winters and forages along intertidal zones where exposed mud and shell beds provide access to bivalves. Less common inland, generally avoiding freshwater habitats. Occurs from the northeastern United States through the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and parts of Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 50 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking shorebird uses its strong, bright orange bill to pry open or sever the muscles of oysters, mussels, and other bivalves. It nests on sandy beaches and shell rakes, where camouflaged eggs are vulnerable to disturbance, predators, and storm surge. Conservation actions such as beach closures during nesting season and protecting oyster reefs benefit the species.
An American Oystercatcher forages on the beach in Atlantic City, NJ.
Temperament
wary and territorial during breeding
Flight Pattern
direct, strong flier with steady wingbeats; conspicuous white wingbar in flight
Social Behavior
Forms monogamous pairs that defend nesting territories on open beaches or shell rakes. Nests are shallow scrapes lined with shells or pebbles, and both parents incubate and tend chicks. Outside the breeding season, they often roost and forage in loose flocks on tidal flats and oyster beds.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, piping whistles and sharp 'kleep' or 'wheep' calls, often given in flight. Excited series of ringing notes accompany territorial displays and pair interactions.
