Black-Necked Stilt

Himantopus mexicanus

As its name suggests, this common year-round resident looks like it’s perched on pink stilts. Its black and white coloring makes it easy to spot as it forages in the shallows. Quiet birds most of the year, Black-necked Stilts put on quite a spectacle after their chicks hatch in spring. They defend their territory with an endless stream of ear-piercing “yip-yip-yip-yip” calls and lure away intruders with conspicuous displays of faked injury.

Fun Fact:
Stilts have longer legs, proportionally, than any bird except flamingos.

What’s for Lunch:
Aquatic bugs and beetles

Where’s Home:
Shallow inland wetlands, year-round