Grey Plover look-alikes
Pluvialis squatarola
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Grey Plover. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
European Golden Plover
Pluvialis apricaria
Key differences
The Grey Plover lacks the golden spangling on the back of the Golden Plover. In breeding plumage, the Golden Plover has a white flank stripe that does not extend over the eye, and its underparts are black but often with a white border. In flight, Golden Plovers lack the prominent black axillaries and white wing bar of the Grey Plover.
American Golden Plover
Pluvialis dominica
Key differences
Similar to European Golden Plover, the American Golden Plover also lacks the black axillaries and white wing bar of the Grey Plover. Its breeding plumage is also black below, but with golden spangling on the back and a white flank stripe that does not extend over the eye. Non-breeding plumages are also browner than Grey Plover.
Pacific Golden Plover
Pluvialis fulva
Key differences
Like other golden plovers, the Pacific Golden Plover lacks the black axillaries and white wing bar. Its breeding plumage is black below with golden spangling above, and a white flank stripe. It is generally smaller and more slender than the Grey Plover.
Explore the Grey Plover
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.