Birds of a Feather: Haematopodidae – The Oystercatchers

There are around 10,000 bird species on this planet, and this series will introduce you to some of the families that make up the class of birds known as Aves. We will review each family’s evolutionary history, distribution, natural history, fun facts, and look at conservation concerns for the family as a whole. This series is intended for birders who are looking for a deeper understanding of avian taxonomy and biology. This class is part of a series (more classes soon!). Each class is standalone and must be purchased separately.

Birds of a Feather: Haematopodidae – The Oystercatchers

Join us on a journey through the evolutionary history, physiology, anatomy, and natural history of these large shorebirds.

In the first part of the class, we examine the evolution of this family, and their relationship to a weird shorebird called an Ibisbill. We will then look at how their bill morphology has allowed them to exploit different invertebrate species worldwide.

In the second part of this class, we will discuss the natural history of these 12 species. We will look at how this group forms pair bonds and raises offspring. Finally, we talk about conservation concerns facing the future of this unique group of shorebirds.