Red-capped Plover
The Red-capped Plover is a small shorebird found primarily along sandy beaches and coastal areas in Australia and New Zealand. It has a distinctive red cap on its head, which contrasts with its white underparts and brownish back. This bird typically measures about 15 to 18 centimeters in length and is known for its quick movements and ability to blend into its surroundings.
These plovers feed mainly on small invertebrates, such as insects and crustaceans, which they find by foraging in the sand. They are often seen running along the shoreline, stopping to peck at the ground. The Red-capped Plover is a migratory species, with some populations moving inland during the breeding season to nest in open areas.