Black-bellied Plover

(Pluvialis squatarola)

The Black-bellied Plover is more aptly named for its summer artic plumage, when it sports a black belly, breast and face. During winter months at Torrey Pines State Reserve, however, it has a white underside and a grayish-brown back with similar wings. While one can see this bird loading up on marine worms, insects and mollusks around the lagoon and beach, it tends to be fairly shy of people and will immediately turn face when approached.