andean avocet Recurvirostra andina

An elegant, boldly patterned large shorebird of high Andean salt lakes, bogs, and lagoon shores. White head and body contrasting with glossy black upperparts are distinctive even at long range; at closer range note bluish legs and long fine bill with upswept tip. Often in pairs or small groups; feeds while wading in shallows, sweeping its bill through the water. Sexes look similar but female’s bill is more strongly upcurved. Gives noisy calls when agitated, especially near nest.