Oystercatcher

Haematopus ostralegus

 

Whatever the time of year the Oystercatcher is distinctive and noisy! In summer it is a widespread breeder inland in Scotland but elsewhere is mostly a coastal breeder. In winter it is widesrpead around our coasts and estuaries.

Note that the 2007-11 maps (below left) reflect only records submitted so far online . We will update these with records from paper forms at the end of each fieldwork season. Check back soon to see how the picture develops. And why not take part and help fill the gaps.

               Winter distribution, 2007/08-10/11                                    Winter distribution, 1981/82-83/84

 

                Breeding distribution, 2007-11                                             Breeding distribution, 1988-91