What does the Killdeer eat?

The Killdeer's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Insectivore, primarily feeding on a wide variety of invertebrates.

How it forages

Forages by running a few steps, stopping abruptly, and then pecking at the ground to catch prey. They primarily eat insects (beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, flies, caterpillars) and other invertebrates (earthworms, snails, crayfish). They may also consume some seeds. They often forage in open areas, sometimes near livestock.

When it feeds

Diurnal, actively foraging during the day. They can also be active at night, especially during migration or when foraging under artificial lights.

Explore the Killdeer