Golden Plover
Pluvialis apricaria

RSPB Conservation Status – Green

Last seen – 8-4-22

The Golden Plover is a striking bird species that can be found in the UK throughout the year.

It has a distinctive plumage, with golden-brown feathers on its back and black feathers on its belly, chest, and face during the breeding season.

Outside the breeding season, its belly and chest feathers turn white.

 

Facts

Population – Around 45,000 breeding pairs

Length – 26 – 29 cm

Wingspan – 67 – 76 cm

Weight – 160 – 300 g

Breeding

Golden Plovers breed in the UK between April and July, with females laying between 3-4 eggs.

The nests are built on the ground in open areas with short vegetation.

Both parents incubate the eggs for around 28 days, and the chicks fledge after around 35 days.

Habitat

Golden Plovers are typically found in upland areas, such as moorlands, heathlands, and boggy areas.

They also inhabit coastal areas during the winter months. 

The birds prefer open areas with short vegetation, where they can forage for food and spot potential predators.

 

Food

Golden Plovers are omnivorous birds, feeding on a range of food sources, including insects, worms, snails, and small mammals.

They forage for food on the ground, using their sharp eyesight to spot potential prey.

If you have seen a Golden Plover, please let us know via our survey page.