
©Andrew Parkinson/2020VISION
Golden plover
Scientific name: Pluvialis apricaria
From spring, look out for the beautiful, speckled gold-and-black breeding plumage of the Golden plover. It can be found in its upland moorland breeding grounds from May to September, moving to lowland farmland and fields in winter.
Species information
Category
Statistics
Length: 26-29cmWingspan: 72cm
Weight: 220g
Average lifespan: 4 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.
When to see
January to DecemberAbout
The Golden plover is a little smaller than the Lapwing, with which it often gathers in large numbers on farmland and coastal flats during the winter. In summer, it is found in upland moorland habitats where it breeds from May to September.It nests on open ground among heather and grass, and the female lays about 4 eggs. Both parents care for the chicks.