Oystercatchers
Oystercatchers
Haematopodidae
The Bold and Beach-Dwelling Specialists: Oystercatchers (Haematopodidae) are striking, black-and-white or entirely black shorebirds with long, bright orange bills perfectly adapted for prying open shellfish. Found on coastlines worldwide, these birds are famous for their loud, piping calls and strong territorial instincts. Despite their name, oystercatchers don’t just eat oysters. They specialize in mussels, clams, and other bivalves, using different techniques to access the meat inside. Some hammer their bills through the shells, while others carefully insert them to slice the muscle holding the shell shut. This feeding strategy requires both skill and strength, making them formidable hunters of the intertidal zone. The Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) is widespread across Europe and Asia, while the American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus) is a familiar sight along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of the Americas. Some species, like the endangered African Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus moquini), face threats from habitat loss and human disturbance. Oystercatchers nest on beaches or coastal grasslands, laying camouflaged eggs that blend perfectly with sand and pebbles. Their adaptability and bold nature make them one of the most recognizable and charismatic shorebirds in the world.