American Avocet song and calls

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

Song

American Avocets do not have a complex song. Their vocalizations are primarily calls.

Calls

The most common call is a sharp, clear, often repeated 'wheet' or 'pleet', sometimes given in a series. When alarmed or defending territory, they may give a more insistent, rapid 'kleet-kleet-kleet' or 'kweek-kweek-kweek' call. They also produce a soft 'whoop' call during courtship.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, especially when establishing territories, during courtship, and when defending nests or young. They also call during migration and when disturbed in wintering areas.

Explore the American Avocet