The Greater Sand Plover is a medium-sized migratory shorebird, larger and longer-billed than its 'Lesser' counterpart. It is found across Asia, Africa, and Australasia.
Where to spot
Breeds in arid and semi-arid regions of Central Asia and the Middle East; migrates to coastal mudflats, sand beaches, and estuaries across Africa, Asia, and Australasia for winter.
How to spot
Scan coastal mudflats and sandy beaches. Look for its relatively long bill and overall size. Differentiating from Lesser Sand Plover requires careful observation of bill length and structure, and plumage details.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration along coastal stopover sites. Summer in Central Asian breeding grounds, winter in coastal non-breeding grounds.
Where to spot
Breeds in arid and semi-arid regions of Central Asia and the Middle East; migrates to coastal mudflats, sand beaches, and estuaries across Africa, Asia, and Australasia for winter.
How to spot
Scan coastal mudflats and sandy beaches. Look for its relatively long bill and overall size. Differentiating from Lesser Sand Plover requires careful observation of bill length and structure, and plumage details.
When to spot
Best observed during spring and autumn migration along coastal stopover sites. Summer in Central Asian breeding grounds, winter in coastal non-breeding grounds.
During the breeding season, males develop a striking rufous breast, which makes them quite conspicuous. This color fades to a much duller plumage in the non-breeding season.
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