American Oystercatcher (State Species of Special Concern)

Identification:
Florida's largest shorebird. Their long, coral red bill and black and white plumage make adults easy to distinguish from all other birds. Juveniles begin to develop the longer bill and outline of adults well before fledging.

Breeding Season:
American Oystercatchers are solitary nesters. Nesting starts as early as mid-March in Florida. Known to sporadically nest on rooftops.

Clutch Size:
Usually 3 eggs (ranges from 2-4)

Incubation:
26 days

Fledge:
35 days

Breeding Bird Atlas Account

*Photo of American Oystercatcher by Tom Zinneman, Chick photo by Bonnie Shedd