The Ruddy Turnstone is a stocky, boldly patterned shorebird that uses its short, stout, slightly upturned bill to flip and overturn pebbles, shells, and seaweed to expose the invertebrates beneath — behavior that gives it its name. Its harlequin pattern of black, white, rufous, and orange is spectacular in breeding plumage. It is one of the most widespread shorebirds in the world.
Best time to see a Ruddy Turnstone
The best time to see a Ruddy Turnstone is March–September, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 26,702 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Recent Ruddy Turnstone sightings near you
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