American Oystercatcher

Description:

Large, boldly patterned bird, the American Oystercatcher is conspicuous along ocean shores and salt marshes. True to its name, it is specialized in feeding on bivalves (oysters, clams, and mussels) and uses its brightly colored bill to get at them.

Habitat:

Coastal habitats including sand or shell beaches, dunes, saltmarsh, marsh islands, mudflats, etc.

Notes:

I call this series "The Dance of the Oystercatchers" I have about 50 photos of this fascinating display. I'm still not sure if they were being territorial or if it was some other type of display.