Dotterel
Least ConcernEudromias morinellus
Visual Identification
Dotterel
Appearance
The Dotterel is a small plover with a distinctive appearance. It has a brown back, a grey-brown crown, and a white eyebrow that curves around the back of the head. The breast is grey-brown with a white band below, while the belly is black in breeding plumage.
Females are more brightly coloured than males, with a more distinct white eyebrow and breast band. In winter, both sexes have duller plumage with less contrast. Juveniles resemble winter adults but have scaly upperparts.
Size
Length
20cm to 22cm
Wingspan
57cm to 64cm
Weight
90g to 150g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Dotterels breed in Arctic tundra and high mountain plateaus across northern Europe and Asia. Their breeding range extends from Scotland and Scandinavia eastward to Siberia. During migration, they can be found in a variety of open habitats, including coastal areas and agricultural fields.
In the UK, Dotterels breed in small numbers in the Scottish Highlands. They pass through England and Wales during spring and autumn migrations, with some birds wintering in North Africa and the Middle East.
Elevation Range
Up to 3,000 meters
Climate zones
Subarctic, Temperate, Alpine
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Dotterels primarily feed on insects and their larvae, including beetles, flies, and moths. They also consume small molluscs, worms, and occasionally seeds. Their diet varies seasonally, with a higher proportion of plant matter during migration and winter months.
Behaviour
Dotterels are known for their tameness and approachability, which unfortunately made them easy targets for hunters in the past.
They have a distinctive bobbing motion when foraging, running in short bursts and then pausing to look for insects. During the breeding season, males take on the primary role of incubating eggs and caring for chicks.
Vocalisation
Dotterels are generally quiet birds. Their most common call is a soft, rolling trill, often described as 'drrrt' or 'prrrt'.
During courtship, males produce a more melodious warbling song. When alarmed, they may give a sharp 'kip' or 'pip' call.
Nesting & Breeding
Dotterels form breeding pairs soon after arriving at their breeding grounds in late spring. Males perform elaborate display flights to attract females. The breeding season typically runs from May to July, depending on the location and altitude.
The nest is a simple scrape on the ground, often lined with lichen or leaves. Females usually lay a clutch of three olive-green eggs with dark brown spots, which blend well with the surrounding vegetation for camouflage.
Incubation, primarily carried out by the male, lasts about 28-32 days. Chicks are precocial and can leave the nest within hours of hatching. They fledge after 25-30 days, with the male providing most parental care.
Lifespan
years
The Dotterel typically lives for 5 to 9 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While currently listed as Least Concern, Dotterel populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting breeding grounds in mountain and tundra habitats.
In the UK, the species is of conservation concern and is closely monitored.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Dotterels in high mountain plateaus or Arctic tundra during breeding season
- Search for them in coastal areas or lowland fields during migration
- Observe their distinctive bobbing motion when foraging
- Listen for their soft, trilling call
- In the UK, visit the Scottish highlands in spring and early summer for the best chances of sighting
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Eurasian Dotterel
Family:
CharadriidaePredators
Main predators of Dotterels include Arctic foxes, skuas, and large gulls. Eggs and chicks are also vulnerable to corvids and mustelids.
Did You Know?
- The name 'Dotterel' comes from 'dote', meaning to behave foolishly due to their trusting nature around humans.
- Dotterels exhibit reversed sexual dimorphism, with females being brighter and more colourful than males.
- They are one of the few bird species where males primarily carry the role of incubating eggs and caring for chicks.
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References
- 1
website: BirdLife International. 2016. Eudromias morinellus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22693906A86574443.
View source - 2 3
report, 2015: Wetlands International