Black-and-white shorebird with long, pinkish legs. Long, thin dark bill. Adult: Black wings and back. Ranges from having an all-white head to having extensive black on crown, face, and and nape. Paler neck than crown. White underparts, often with all white head. During breeding season has pinkish wash on face and breast. Juvenile: Blackish-brown back and wings with grayish hind-neck and face. White underparts and forehead. Similar to Black-necked Stilt but always has white on the hind-neck. Sometimes considered conspecific with Black-necked Stilt.

Length: 38 (cm) Wingspan: 75 (cm)

Habitat:

Breeds in salt and freshwater marshes, flooded fields and shallow lakes. In nonbreeding season moves to coastal estuaries and ponds.

Behavior:

Behaves like Black-necked Stilt. Breeds in colonies; large numbers congregate in feeding and migration areas. Loose flocks spread across water and forage by picking food off the surface. Noisy and aggressive toward intruders.

Feeding:

Primarily feeds on invertebrates, small fish, fish eggs, and tadpoles.