Haematopodidae – Family Overview

The family Haematopodidae comprises the oystercatchers, a distinctive group of robust wading birds primarily associated with coastal environments. They are easily recognised by their bold black-and-white plumage, long reddish bills, and strong legs adapted for walking on rocky shores and mudflats.

Oystercatchers use their powerful bills to probe, pry, or hammer open molluscs and other marine invertebrates, a feeding strategy that gives the group its common name. Some species also forage inland on riverbanks, estuaries, and wet grasslands, especially outside the breeding season.

Members of this family are generally territorial and vocal, often giving loud piping calls when disturbed. Their behaviour and habitat preferences make them characteristic birds of open shorelines and intertidal zones.

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This section features photographs of oystercatchers documented across coastal and wetland habitats, highlighting their feeding behaviour, habitat use, and presence across different regions.

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Licensing & Prints

Selected photographs from the Haematopodidae family are available for licensing and editorial use.
View available bird photographs