About The Chestnut-banded Plover
The Chestnut-banded Plover (Charadrius pallidus) is a small shorebird species found in parts of southern and eastern Africa.
Habitat
Chestnut-banded Plovers are typically found in coastal habitats, including sandy beaches, mudflats, estuaries, and salt pans. They prefer areas with sandy or muddy substrates and shallow water, where they can forage for small invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and mollusks. These plovers are often seen running along the water's edge or probing the sand and mud for food.
Length
Chestnut-banded Plovers are small birds, measuring approximately 15 to 17 centimeters (6 to 7 inches) in length. They have a compact build with short legs, a short neck, and a relatively short, straight bill. Their plumage is predominantly sandy-brown or grayish-brown, with a distinctive chestnut-colored band across the breast and upper belly, which gives them their name.
Best Viewing
The best places to view Chestnut-banded Plovers are in coastal habitats within their range. Look for them on sandy beaches, mudflats, estuaries, and salt pans where they are commonly found. These plovers are often seen in small groups or pairs, foraging for food along the water's edge or resting on exposed sandbars.