The Killdeer is the most widespread and familiar plover in North America, often nesting on gravel rooftops, parking lots, and athletic fields far from water. Its theatrical 'broken wing' distraction display — dragging a wing and calling loudly to lure predators from the nest — is one of the most convincing performances in the bird world. It is named for its loud 'kill-DEER' call.
Best time to see a Killdeer
The best time to see a Killdeer is February–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 108,081 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Killdeer? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Killdeer sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Killdeer?
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