Pied Avocet look-alikes
Recurvirostra avosetta
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Pied Avocet. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
American Avocet
Recurvirostra americana
Key differences
The American Avocet has a similar body shape and upcurved bill, but its breeding plumage includes rusty-orange coloration on the head, neck, and breast, which the Pied Avocet lacks. Non-breeding American Avocets are grey where Pied Avocets are black on the head and back.
Red-necked Avocet
Recurvirostra novaehollandiae
Key differences
Found in Australia, this species has a distinctive chestnut-red head and neck, clearly differentiating it from the Pied Avocet's black and white head.
Andean Avocet
Recurvirostra andina
Key differences
Found in the Andes, this species has a black head and neck, but its back and wings are entirely black, lacking the white body and distinct black stripes of the Pied Avocet.
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