Black Turnstone

1/400s at f6.3, ISO:800, Canon Mark III 1Ds w/800mm


The Black Turnstone is one of the characteristic shorebirds of the Pacific Coast, often seen foraging for invertebrates in the rocky intertidal zone. It breeds in western Alaska and winters along the entire stretch of Pacific Coast from southern Alaska to Baja California. Black Turnstone nests on the ground, usually near water, lining a shallow depression with grass. The nest contains three to four eggs, which are incubated by both sexes for about three weeks. Chicks leave the nest shortly after hatching, and find all their own food. Both parents care for the young at first, but the female often leaves after two weeks, leaving the remaining parental care to the male.
Kodiak, AK
 
08/14/2009