Project Description
Ruddy Turnstone
Arenaria interpres
Range/Geographical Distribution: Breeds in northwestern Alaska and the Canadian Arctic. Spends its winters along the Atlantic coast south of Connecticut.
Habitat: Breeds on coastal tundra. Spends its winters on coastal beaches.
Similar Species: Sanderling, willet, and dunlin.
Description: Stocky shorebird with bright orange legs and rusty brown coloration on its back and wings. Distinct black marks can be seen on its face and chest.
Size: Length: 6-8” Wingspan: 19-22” Weight: 84-190g
Food: Aquatic invertebrates and insects as well as carrion, garbage, and bird eggs.
Breeding: Lays four spotted olive eggs in a hollow lined with grasses and leaves on the coastal tundra.
Predators: Large birds of prey, feral cats, and wild boars.
Conservation Status: Listed as least concern by IUCN.
Interesting Facts: Ruddy turnstones get their names from their method of foraging for food. They walk along the beach, overturning stones and grabbing the animals hiding underneath.
On the Coast: The ruddy turnstone spends the winter months along Georgia’s coast. They can be seen near the jetties on Tybee Island’s south end.