Galapagos Ruddy Turnstone Facts

Name: Ruddy Turnstone
Family: Scolopacidae
Scientific Name: Arenaria interpres
Length: 21 - 26 cm (8.3 - 10.2 in)
Wingspan: 50–57 cm (20–22 in)
Weight: 85–150 g (3.0–5.3 oz)
Clutch Size: ‎2-5 eggs

Category: Shore Birds
Number of Species: 28
Endemic Species: 19

In total, 21 species of water birds have been recorded in Galapagos, 10 of which are endemic to the Islands. Thirty-Four species of shore birds have been recorded in Galapagos, only 2 of which are endemic.

Category: Shore Birds
Family: Scolopacidae

A total of twenty-six species have been recorded in Galapagos, including 14 migrants and 12 vagrants. These shorebirds, recorded in Galapagos vary in size from the small sandpipers (often referred to as 'peeps') to the medium-sized Whimbrel. They also vary in structure from the short-legged to the long-legged and from the short-billed to the long-billed. The larger and strikingly plumaged species are generally quite easy to identify. However, the smaller ones can be difficult and some, particularly when they are in non-breeding plumage, are distinguishable only by careful observation of their overall structure, sub de plumage features, leg color, bill shape and rump pattern.

A common migrant, present throughout the year although most numerous from September to March; confined to the coast.

Identification:
A smallish, rather stocky wader with relatively short, orange legs and short, slighty upturned bill. In flight shows distinctive variegated wing-pattern. ADULT BREEDlNG: Back and wings rufous; distinctive black and white facial pattern and black breast-band contrasting with unmarked white under parts; throat white. ADULT NON-BREEDlNG AND JUVENILE: Similar to, but duller than, breeding adult, with less rufous on upper parts and less distinct head-pattern.

Voice:
A staccato rattle "tuk, tuk-e-tuk-tuk".

Behavior:
Usually occurs in small flocks and is commonly seen in a Galapagos cruise.