Black-necked Stilt song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Black-necked Stilt, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Does not have a complex song. Vocalizations are primarily calls.

Calls

A distinctive, high-pitched, sharp 'kip-kip-kip' or 'kek-kek-kek' call, often repeated rapidly, especially when alarmed or in flight. Can also produce a more drawn-out 'kree-ee-ee' call.

When they vocalize

Most vocal when disturbed, during territorial disputes, or when communicating within a flock, particularly during breeding and migration.

Explore the Black-necked Stilt