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Lesser Sand-plover
Charadrius mongolus
Conservation Status
Vulnerable species in New South Wales (Threatened Species Conservation Act). At a national level this species is listed as a Migratory species on the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.
What does it look like?
The non-breeding Lesser Sand-plover has a grey-brown crown, nape, back and breast patches. The forehead, lores, bill and upperwing are dark; ear coverts are dusky. There is prominent white plumage on the forehead, chin, throat and underparts, including the underwing. The Lesser Sand-plover is distinguished from the Greater Sand Plover by a smaller body with a more upright stance, more compact appearance and dark grey, rather than greenish legs. (from DEC-NSW Threatened Species Profile)
Where does it live and what does it eat?
It visits Australia when it migrates South in winter from its breeding habitat in Asia. In Australia the species may occur around the entire coast. They use beaches in sheltered bays, harbours and estuaries with large intertidal sandflats or mudflats. There is one record for Warriewood from 1998, presumably in the wetlands. They tend to stay in flocks, often sharing roosting and feeding sites with other waders. Suitable roost sites include sandy beaches, spits and rocky shores. Insects, crustaceans, molluscs and marine worms form the diet for this species.
Updated: 27 Jun 2011
Related Links
- Lesser Sand-plover - DEC-NSW Threatened Species Profile