Black-necked Stilt
Himantopus mexicanus
This flamboyant shorebird is noteworthy for its bright pink legs, crimson red eyes, and tuxedo like plumage. Of all birds, the stilt has the second longest legs in proportion to body size—second only to the flamingo. With a body that is smaller than that of a pigeon, this leggy wonder can stand a whopping 15 inches tall! Its extraordinary height allows the stilt to feed with less competition in deeper waters where shorter wading birds cannot follow. Stilts are equally at home in saltwater and fresh. Your best chance of observing a stilt is around shallow wetlands like marshes, mangrove swamps, lagoons, and flooded areas near rivers. Stilt nests are often on the ground, in the depression that remains after the bird scrapes away loose sand or soil. Their noisy high-pitched calls are a repetitive yap! or keek! in staccato fashion.
Jan Baumgartner handmade note cards showcase Siesta Key scenic and wildlife.
Siesta Key Notecards are now available in two locations:
BLVD Beachwear
5239 Ocean Blvd
941-349-2583
Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique
4420 S Tamiami Trail
941-260-8905
Author: Siesta Sand
- Tags: The Tweet Life