Surfbird (Aphriza virgata)

Surfbird, Cattle Point, Uplands, Near Victoria, British Columbia
Photograph by Alan And Elaine Wilson. Some rights reserved. (view image details)

SURFBIRD FACTS

Description
The Surfbird is a medium-sized shore bird. Outside the breeding season it is a gray bird with yellow legs and short bill. The tail is white with black band at the tip. There is also a white stripe on the wing. During the breeding season, the male has a rust colored back with spotted breast. Females are similar to non-breeding males. Juveniles are similar to non-breeding adults, but have streaked head and fine barring on the breast.

Size
24cm - 26cm

Environment
breeds in rocky alpine tundra. Winters on rocky shores

Food
Aquatic invertebrates, insects.

Breeding
The nest is a depression on the ground lined with vegetation. The female lays four eggs.

Range
Breeds in Alaska and Yukon Territory. Winters along Pacific Coast from western Alaska to southern South America.

Classification

Class:	Aves
Order:	Charadriiformes
Family:	Scolopacidae
Genus:	Aphriza
Species:	virgata
Common Name:	Surfbird

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