Although a lot is known about golden plovers in relation to their behavior and ecological niche, this bird remains distinct from others.These fluffy birds are well camouflaged on the mossy Arctic where they lay their eggs.
Golden Plovers prefer open, dry tundra for nesting. They usually use lichens, mosses, grasses and leaves as materials for nest building so as to hide them. The female lays about three to four eggs with colors ranging from white to light brown and black or brown spots. The color of the eggshell enables it to blend in with its surroundings hence protecting it from predators. One parent will sit on the eggs throughout the day while male sits during the night; this lasts for around 26-27 days till hatching takes place
They are born like this because it helps disguise them from bird predators. This makes golden plover chicks so precocial that they can feed on their own in less than 24 hours after hatching. This fast growth ensures that the young birds survive since predators cannot easily kill them before they become strong enough to escape from their enemies (National Audubon Society). Furthermore, the chicks’ rapid development minimizes the chances of predation and enhances their survival opportunities. However, there is an immediate danger of starvation as a result of delay in following mother’s steps.
During the breeding season, adult Golden Plovers primarily prey on insects. These birds mostly eat spiders and other small critters or bugs. Occasionally, they also consume berries and seeds while migrating or when they visit their wintering grounds. Food availability determines what Golden Plovers eat: behavior driven by these changes varies depending upon seasons and habitats shifting with food abundance. In addition, some populations will even travel as far as South America during this period.
Golden Plovers are renowned for their vigilance and caution. This specie is also characterized by its distinctive, melodious whistles, which are often vocalized during its mating period. Understanding of the Golden Plover’s habits reveals outstanding adaptations and actions that have helped them to succeed in diverse and demanding habitats.
