Grey Plover
Pluvialis squatarola
Overview
The Grey Plover is an Arctic breeder that winters on the Sefton Coast's mudflats and lagoons. Stockier than Golden Plover, it tends to be solitary or in small groups rather than the huge flocks of its cousin. The black axillary feathers ('armpits') visible in flight are distinctive. In April departing birds may be starting to show the black belly of summer plumage.
At a Glance
| Order | Charadriiformes |
| Family | Charadriidae |
| Habitat | Mudflat · Estuary · Coastal lagoon |
| Diet | Marine worms, bivalves, crustaceans picked from mud surface |
| UK population | Around 43,000 wintering birds |
| Sefton Coast | Regular on the Ribble Estuary and Marshside; numbers in tens to low hundreds |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Ribble Estuary mudflats at low tide. Marshside lagoons.
Identification
Stocky plover. Pale grey above in winter, with spangled black-and-white in summer. Black armpits in flight — diagnostic. Stands upright, tilts forward to feed.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Check mudflats at low tide for solitary birds. The black armpits visible in flight are the clincher.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to identify a Grey Plover in flight?
The 'black armpits' — the axillary feathers beneath the wing — are diagnostic of Grey Plover in flight and distinguishable from all other similarly-sized plovers. Golden Plover has pale armpits. The feature is visible even at distance with binoculars.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.