Definition & Meaning of "oystercatcher"

What is an "oystercatcher"?

An oystercatcher is a medium-sized shorebird with a distinctive appearance and behavior. With its black and white plumage, long orange-red bill, and bright orange eyes, the oystercatcher stands out among other coastal birds. It is commonly found along coastlines and estuaries, where it feeds on mollusks, particularly oysters, as well as other invertebrates and small crustaceans. Oystercatchers are known for their distinctive loud calls, which they use to communicate with each other and establish their territory. They have strong bills that they use to pry open shells and extract prey from the sand or rocks. Oystercatchers are monogamous and form long-term pair bonds. They build simple nests on the ground, often in sand or gravel, where they lay their eggs and raise their young. These charismatic birds are an important part of coastal ecosystems, playing a role in controlling the populations of shellfish and other intertidal organisms.