Species BirdsBlack-necked Stilt

Black-necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

CommonBird
Illustration of Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus)

The Black-necked Stilt has the second-longest legs relative to body size of any bird in the world, after the flamingo. Its bold black-and-white plumage and shocking pink legs make it unmistakable in shallow wetlands. It is extremely vocal and aggressive in defense of its nest, harassing even Great Blue Herons and humans that venture too close.

Habitat
Shallow freshwater and saltwater marshes and mudflats
Diet
Aquatic invertebrates, small fish, and insects
How common
Common

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