Species Profile
Dotterel
Eudromias morinellus
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
5–9 years
Length
20–22 cm
Weight
90–150 g
Wingspan
57–64 cm
Migration
Long-distance Migrant
Also known as: Eurasian Dotterel
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Appearance
The Dotterel is a small plover with a distinctive appearance. It has a brown back, a grey-brown crown, and a white eyebrow that curves around the back of the head. The breast is grey-brown with a white band below, while the belly is black in breeding plumage.
Females are more brightly coloured than males, with a more distinct white eyebrow and breast band. In winter, both sexes have duller plumage with less contrast. Juveniles resemble winter adults but have scaly upperparts.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Yellow
Female Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Yellow
Female Markings
Brighter plumage with more distinct white eyebrow and breast band
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Dotterels breed in Arctic tundra and high mountain plateaus across northern Europe and Asia. Their breeding range extends from Scotland and Scandinavia eastward to Siberia. During migration, they can be found in a variety of open habitats, including coastal areas and agricultural fields.
In the UK, Dotterels breed in small numbers in the Scottish Highlands. They pass through England and Wales during spring and autumn migrations, with some birds wintering in North Africa and the Middle East.
Distribution
Diet
Dotterels primarily feed on insects and their larvae, including beetles, flies, and moths. They also consume small molluscs, worms, and occasionally seeds. Their diet varies seasonally, with a higher proportion of plant matter during migration and winter months.
Behaviour
Dotterels are known for their tameness and approachability, which unfortunately made them easy targets for hunters in the past.
They have a distinctive bobbing motion when foraging, running in short bursts and then pausing to look for insects. During the breeding season, males take on the primary role of incubating eggs and caring for chicks.
Calls & Sounds
Dotterels are generally quiet birds. Their most common call is a soft, rolling trill, often described as 'drrrt' or 'prrrt'.
During courtship, males produce a more melodious warbling song. When alarmed, they may give a sharp 'kip' or 'pip' call.
Nesting & Breeding
Dotterels form breeding pairs soon after arriving at their breeding grounds in late spring. Males perform elaborate display flights to attract females. The breeding season typically runs from May to July, depending on the location and altitude.
The nest is a simple scrape on the ground, often lined with lichen or leaves. Females usually lay a clutch of three olive-green eggs with dark brown spots, which blend well with the surrounding vegetation for camouflage.
Incubation, primarily carried out by the male, lasts about 28-32 days. Chicks are precocial and can leave the nest within hours of hatching. They fledge after 25-30 days, with the male providing most parental care.
Conservation
While currently listed as Least Concern, Dotterel populations are declining in some areas due to habitat loss and climate change. Conservation efforts focus on protecting breeding grounds in mountain and tundra habitats.
In the UK, the species is of conservation concern and is closely monitored.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Dotterels in high mountain plateaus or Arctic tundra during breeding season
- Search for them in coastal areas or lowland fields during migration
- Observe their distinctive bobbing motion when foraging
- Listen for their soft, trilling call
- In the UK, visit the Scottish highlands in spring and early summer for the best chances of sighting
Did You Know?
- The name 'Dotterel' comes from 'dote', meaning to behave foolishly due to their trusting nature around humans.
- Dotterels exhibit reversed sexual dimorphism, with females being brighter and more colourful than males.
- They are one of the few bird species where males primarily carry the role of incubating eggs and caring for chicks.
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