What is a "plover"?

A plover is a small shorebird with a distinctive appearance and behavior. These agile birds can be found along sandy shores, mudflats, and coastal areas around the world. With their compact body, short legs, and sharp beak, plovers are well-adapted for foraging in these environments. They feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, worms, and crustaceans, which they peck at or probe for in the sand or shallow water. Plovers are known for their quick movements and alertness, often running along the shoreline or pausing to probe the sand for prey. They have a keen sense of their surroundings, using their sharp eyesight to spot predators and potential threats. Plovers are also known for their distinctive calls, which can be heard as they communicate with each other or warn of danger. Their presence on the shorelines adds a sense of liveliness and beauty to these coastal habitats, making them a beloved sight for birdwatchers and beachgoers alike.