American Golden Plover

Pluvialis dominica

The American Golden Plover is one of the longest-distance migrants, summering on the Arctic Tundra, and wintering in southern South America. Most common as a spring migrant through the state, with most fall birds flying directly from eastern Canada to South America.  The American Golden Plover was once much more common than it is presently.

Habitat: During migration through South Dakota, generally found on plowed fields and prairies with short or grazed grass.  They are only occasionally found on mudflats and marshy areas.  Breeds on the Arctic Tundra in summer.

Diet: Primarily feeds on insects.  Will also feed on seeds, small crustaceans, small mollusks, and occasionally berries.

Behavior: Often found foraging on the ground in plowed fields and other agricultural land, as well as heavily grazed areas. 

Breeding: Non-breeder in South Dakota

Song: Loud rich whistling quee-dol. 

Migration: A long-distance migrant, summering in the Arctic Tundra, and wintering in South America.

Similar Species: Black-bellied Plover, Mountain Plover

Conservation Status:   Populations were decimated due to 19th-century hunting pressures.  Numbers have never recovered to historical levels, and diminishing habitat in their South American wintering grounds is possibly causing further declines.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, American Golden Plover

2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - American Golden Plover"

3) eNature.com: American Golden Plover

Photo Information: 2002 -- Near Redfield -- Greg Wolbrink