Plovers

Charadriidae

Species 8
Size range 14 - 31 cm
Threatened Species 0

Family Distribution

Notable Species

Northern Lapwing
Largest
Northern Lapwing
Heaviest
Grey Plover
Largest Wingspan
Northern Lapwing
Longest Living

Attribute Champions

Most Agile
85

The Golden Plover demonstrates remarkable agility, particularly during its aerial displays and rapid flight. Its ability to perform steep climbs and swift descents, coupled with its nimble run-stop-tilt foraging behaviour, indicates a high level of manoeuvrability.

Strongest
60

Whilst not exceptionally strong for its size, the Golden Plover possesses adequate strength to undertake long-distance migrations. Its ability to fly at speeds up to 60 mph (97 km/h) suggests a moderate level of muscular power.

Most Adaptable
90

Grey Plovers show remarkable adaptability, thriving in diverse habitats from Arctic tundra to tropical beaches. Their ability to migrate vast distances, tolerate various climates, and adjust their diet to local food sources demonstrates high adaptability.

Most Aggressive
70

During breeding season, Northern Lapwings exhibit notable aggression in defending their nests and young. Their use of distraction displays to lure predators away and their willingness to mob potential threats indicate a fairly high level of aggressiveness when necessary.

Highest Endurance
95

The Grey Plover exhibits exceptional endurance, undertaking annual migrations of up to 13,000 km each way. Their ability to fly at speeds of 60 km/h during these long-distance journeys, coupled with their capacity to winter in diverse global locations, justifies this high endurance rating.

Species

Dotterel

Dotterel

Eudromias morinellus

Least Concern
Golden Plover

Golden Plover

Pluvialis apricaria

Least Concern
Grey Plover

Grey Plover

Pluvialis squatarola

Least Concern
Kentish Plover

Kentish Plover

Charadrius alexandrinus

Least Concern
Little Ringed Plover

Little Ringed Plover

Charadrius dubius

Least Concern
Northern Lapwing

Northern Lapwing

Vanellus vanellus

Near Threatened
Piping Plover

Piping Plover

Charadrius melodus

Near Threatened
Ringed Plover

Ringed Plover

Charadrius hiaticula

Least Concern