The white-fronted plover or white-fronted sandplover is a small shorebird of the family Charadriidae that inhabits sandy beaches, dunes, mudflats and the shores of rivers and lakes in sub-saharan Africa and Madagascar. It nests in small shallow scrapes in the ground and lays clutches of one to three eggs. The species is monogamous and long-lived, with a life expectancy of approximately 12 years. The vast majority of pairs that mate together stay together during the following years of breeding and retain the same territory. The white-fronted plover has a similar appearance to the Kentish plover, with a white fore crown and dark bands connecting the eyes to the bill.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa and Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs along sandy ocean beaches, coastal dunes, estuaries, tidal mudflats, and saline or freshwater lagoon margins. Also found inland on the shores of rivers and lakes, salt pans, and sparsely vegetated sandbars. Nests are placed on open ground with minimal vegetation, typically just above the high-water mark. It tolerates some human-modified shorelines but is sensitive to heavy disturbance. Local movements track water levels and food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small shorebird of African coasts and inland waters, the white-fronted plover often nests in shallow scrapes just above the high-tide line. It is typically monogamous and long-lived for its size, with many pairs returning to the same territory year after year. It resembles the Kentish plover but shows a distinctive white forecrown and a dark loral stripe to the bill. Human disturbance on beaches, including off-road vehicles and unleashed dogs, is a common threat to nests.
White-fronted plover (Anarhynchus marginatus), The Gambia, 2021
juvenile, Chobe National Park, Namibia
White-fronted plover on the hot sands of Nosy Be, south-western Madagascar
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
low, fast flight with rapid wingbeats; agile over surf line
Social Behavior
Pairs are monogamous and defend small beach territories during breeding. They nest in shallow scrapes, often sparsely lined with shell fragments, laying 1–3 eggs. Both sexes incubate and perform distraction displays to deter predators. Outside the breeding season, small loose groups may form at foraging sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, high-pitched piping notes and short whistles, often given in contact or alarm. During breeding, calls become more frequent and sharp, especially during territorial interactions or distraction displays.
