European Golden Plover vs Common Ringed Plover

In short

The European Golden Plover and Common Ringed Plover can be distinguished by their size and plumage patterns. The European Golden Plover is larger and has a more uniform golden-brown appearance, while the Common Ringed Plover is smaller with a distinctive black and white face pattern. In flight, look for the golden plover's lack of a wing stripe compared to the ringed plover's prominent white wing bar.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: European Golden Plovers are larger with longer legs and a more upright stance. 2. Plumage: Look for the golden speckling on the back of the European Golden Plover, absent in the Common Ringed Plover. 3. Face Pattern: The Common Ringed Plover has a distinctive black and white face pattern. 4. Flight: Note the absence of a wing stripe in the European Golden Plover compared to the white wing bar of the Common Ringed Plover. 5. Habitat: Consider the habitat; European Golden Plovers prefer upland areas, while Common Ringed Plovers are coastal.

Size

The European Golden Plover is larger and more robust than the Common Ringed Plover.

Plumage

European Golden Plovers have a golden-brown speckled back and a black face and belly in breeding plumage. Common Ringed Plovers have a striking black and white face pattern with a white collar and a brown back.

Behaviour

Both species forage by sight, but the Common Ringed Plover often uses a 'run-stop-peck' technique, while the European Golden Plover tends to walk steadily.

Habitat

European Golden Plovers are often found in open moorland and tundra during breeding, while Common Ringed Plovers prefer sandy or pebbly shores and mudflats.

Voice

The European Golden Plover has a plaintive, whistling call, whereas the Common Ringed Plover's call is a sharp 'peep' or 'pip'.