Turnstone

Turnstone

Scientific Name: ( Arenaria interpres )

These charismatic, bold birds get their name from their foraging behaviour. Using their upturned beaks, they turn over stones and pebbles looking for insects and crustaceans along the shoreline.

Turnstone are medium-sized wading birds and a common visitor to our coastline in the winter months. They can be seen on sandy beaches but particularly like rocky shore habitat where there is plenty of seaweed to scavenge on. At high tide they can be seen roosting on harbour walls and jetties as they wait for the tide to go back out so they can resume feeding.

Turnstones are mottled in appearance with dark brown backs and white underparts. They have black markings on the head and breast, a short black bill and bright orange legs. They always appear “busy” despite their small size are able to turn over large stones as they actively search for food.

Turnstone populations are in decline across the UK. They are amber listed and classified as a species of conservation concern. They are protected under the Northumbria Special Protection Area that covers areas of the Sunderland coastline. This is because nationally important numbers of these birds use our coastline during the winter months.

You are most likely to see Turnstones along the rocky shore. However, they can be bold and will sometimes come quite close to people when searching for food. At Hendon, big flocks of turnstone can be seen scuttling across the promenade in the winter months or roosting on the sea walls during high tide. Always remember to follow our guidance when it comes to reducing bird disturbance.

KEY FACTS

CONSERVATION STATUS | Amber

LENGTH | 21-24cm

WINGSPAN | 50-57cm

WHEN TO SEE THEM | Autumn / Winter

Turnstone

Turnstone

KEY FACTS

Great Black-backed gull

Knot

Curlew

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