Recurvirostridae – Family Overview

The family Recurvirostridae includes avocets and stilts, elegant wading birds adapted to life in shallow wetlands, lagoons, salt pans, and estuaries. Members of this family are easily recognised by their long legs, slim bodies, and specialised bills.

Avocets are characterised by their distinctly upturned bills, which they sweep side to side while feeding in shallow water, filtering small aquatic invertebrates. Stilts, in contrast, have straight, needle-like bills and extremely long legs, allowing them to forage efficiently in deeper water.

Species in this family are strongly associated with open wetlands and coastal habitats and are often seen feeding in small groups. Their striking black-and-white plumage patterns make them among the most visually distinctive of all waders.

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This section features photographs of avocets and stilts documented across Indian wetlands and coastal regions, highlighting their behaviour, habitat use, and seasonal presence.

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Licensing & Prints

Selected photographs from this family are available for licensing and prints. You can explore curated images of avocets and stilts here:
Avocets & Stilts – Pied Waders Collection