Semipalmated Plover

Charadrius semipalmatus May–Nov

Named for their partially webbed feet, this plover looks like a mini version of a Kildeer but with only one black bar on its breast and shorter legs. They breed in the arctic and subarctic regions during the summer, migrating south in early fall. During the breeding season, the bill and legs become bright orange.

The partial webbing found between its toes allows this plover to navigate pebbly and gravelly areas more easily. They often nest near the shoreline of ponds, rivers and estuaries with little vegetation. As a long-distance migrant, the coastal areas of Rhode Island are a great spot to keep an eye out for this plump bird as they forage for food in between flights.