Ruddy Turnstone

Ruddy turnstones breed across Arctic tundra from Alaska and northern Canada through Greenland, Scandinavia, and northern Siberia. Outside the breeding season they occupy coastlines around much of the world. Breeding birds use tundra and rocky shores, whereas migrants and wintering birds frequent sandy beaches, mudflats, rocky beaches, and other intertidal habitats. Their compact bodies measure 21 to 26 centimeters long, with wingspans of 50 to 57 centimeters and weights ranging from 84 to 190 grams. (Animal Diversity Web)

During breeding, ruddy turnstones consume insects such as flies, midges, caterpillars, and beetles, together with spiders. In coastal winter habitats they take crustaceans, mollusks, polychaete worms, fish, eggs, carrion, and some plant material. Their strong bills are used to flip stones and other objects while searching for concealed prey. Pairs are generally monogamous, and both adults incubate and protect a clutch of two to five eggs, usually four, for approximately 21 to 24 days. (Animal Diversity Web)