The killdeer is a medium-sized shorebird found throughout North America. Known for its distinctively piercing kill-dee call, the killdeer belongs to the plover family Charadriidae. So in that sense, yes the killdeer is considered a type of plover. However, when most people refer to “plovers” they are usually referring specifically to the genus Pluvialis, which includes birds like the black-bellied plover and the piping plover. The killdeer is not a member of that genus, so some birders may say it is not technically a true plover. This article will go over the classification and characteristics of the killdeer to help explain its relation to other plovers.
Taxonomy of the Killdeer
The killdeer is scientifically known as Charadrius vociferus. It is the largest member of the genus Charadrius, a diverse group of small to medium-sized plovers. Here is how the killdeer fits into the taxonomic classification system:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Charadriiformes
Family: Charadriidae (plovers and lapwings)
Genus: Charadrius
Species: Charadrius vociferus
So the killdeer belongs to the same family (Charadriidae) and order (Charadriiformes) as other plover species. This means it shares many similarities and relations to plovers, even if it is not in the Pluvialis genus.
Characteristics of the Killdeer
In terms of physical appearance, the killdeer has several features typical of plovers:
- Stocky body shape
- Short neck and small head
- Short bill
- Long pointed wings
- Short tail
- Long legs
- Bold black and white plumage pattern
Some key ways the killdeer differs from other plovers:
- It is larger, about the size of a mourning dove at 9-11 inches long with a 20-26 inch wingspan
- It has two black breast bands instead of onebreast band
- Brighter rufous coloration on its back and tail
- Wider white wing stripe
In flight, the killdeer exhibits rapid wingbeats interspersed with brief periods of wings pulled to its body, creating a flight style all its own. Its long pointed wings and tail give it a graceful airborne appearance.
On the ground, killdeer move by running, stopping and starting frequently, rather than walking. Their running style gives them their common name, as it looks like they are constantly “killing deer.”
Habits and Habitat
Killdeer are found in open habitats like fields, meadows, golf courses, lawns, and shorelines throughout much of North America. They prefer areas with short vegetation and bare ground where they can easily spot potential predators and find insects and other small prey.
During the breeding season, killdeer nest right on the ground in a scrape lined with pebbles, shells or debris. Their speckled eggs blend in remarkably with their surroundings. If a predator or perceived threat approaches the nest, the parent killdeer will try to lure the predator away using the famous “broken wing display.”
Killdeer are sometimes considered a nuisance as they frequently nest in gravel parking lots, driveways, athletic fields, and other developed areas. But their adaptable, bold nature allows them to thrive near humans.
Outside of breeding season, killdeer gather in small flocks and continue frequenting open habitats. They primarily feed on insects, spiders, worms, snails and other invertebrates. At coastal sites they may pick small crabs and shrimp from mudflats or marshes.
Range and Population
Killdeer have an extremely widespread range across North America. Their breeding range extends across the United States, Mexico and Canada. In winter they retreat somewhat south of their breeding range, though still ranging as far north as coastal Oregon and Massachusetts.
Population estimates put their North American numbers around 1 million to 2 million. Partners in Flight estimates a global breeding population of 5 million. Their populations appear stable, with no indication of significant declines.
Confusion With Other Plovers
The killdeer’s larger size and striking plumage make it harder to confuse with other plovers compared to identifying amongst the various Pluvialis plovers. But there are a few plovers with some resemblance:
- Semipalmated plover: Smaller with one breast band and less rufous on back. Breeds in Arctic.
- Piping plover: Much smaller with pale upperparts, orange legs, and single neck band. Endangered species.
- Snowy plover: All pale upperparts with dark lateral breast patches. Found along Pacific and Gulf Coast beaches.
- Mountain plover: Paler overall with white forehead. Breeds in western plains.
The killdeer’s vocalizations are its most reliable identification feature. Its loud, piercing “kill-deer” call is given frequently both in flight and while on the ground defending its territory.
Significance to Humans
The killdeer holds little significance for hunting, food or feathers compared to other shorebirds. But it is widely recognized and enjoyed for its noise and bold nature. Killdeer have even adapted well to living alongside humans in developed areas.
Seeing or hearing killdeer signals the return of spring to many observers. The birds brighten wetlands, athletic fields, and even parking lots with their presence. Their “broken wing” distraction displays never cease to fascinate. And birders admire their spirited territorial defense.
Conclusion
While not in the typical Puvialis genus, the killdeer exhibits many physical traits and behaviors characteristic of the plover family. Its relation to other plover species is confirmed by its scientific classification in the order Charadriiformes and family Charadriidae. So the killdeer does fit squarely into the plover family, even if it stands out from the typical shorebirds the term “plover” often brings to mind. The killdeer has adapted well to its range and carries on the plover legacy in its own unique way with its boisterous nature.