Dotterel

Charadrius morinellus

A member of the plover family, the dotterel breed in the uplands.

Unusually females are more brightly coloured than the males and it is the males who rear the chicks. Upper parts are predominantly grey in adult birds, the breast is a rich chestnut, while the large white “eyebrow” is distinctive. The horizontal white chest “halter” is distinctive, throughout the year. Has a brief undulating piping call. Not to be confused with the similar shaped golden and grey plovers.

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Discover more about the Dotterel

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When to see

In summer this bird breeds on the high plateaus in the Highlands and is seen in spring and autumn passage in Fife and East Lothian on pastureland or stubble and in new growing crops.

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Did you know?

This bird is confined to a specific habitat and is vulnerable to disturbance by hill walkers. Dogs should be kept under close control when on high tops during spring and summer.

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Where to see

Dotterel are found on the high tops of Mountains.

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Related species

Lapwing

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

In summer this bird breeds on the high plateaus in the Highlands and is seen in spring and autumn passage in Fife and East Lothian on pastureland or stubble and in new growing crops.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

This bird is confined to a specific habitat and is vulnerable to disturbance by hill walkers. Dogs should be kept under close control when on high tops during spring and summer.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Dotterel are found on the high tops of Mountains.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Lapwing

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

In summer this bird breeds on the high plateaus in the Highlands and is seen in spring and autumn passage in Fife and East Lothian on pastureland or stubble and in new growing crops.

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

This bird is confined to a specific habitat and is vulnerable to disturbance by hill walkers. Dogs should be kept under close control when on high tops during spring and summer.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Dotterel are found on the high tops of Mountains.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Lapwing

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