Biology

The two-banded plover is known to feed on a variety of small invertebrates including polychaete worms, molluscs and crustaceans (2) (4) (5) (6). It mostly forages on the edges of surf and rockpools, or amongst rotting seaweed and coastal grasses (2) (4). Despite being a strong flyer, rather than taking to the air, it usually flees from danger with an evasive run (4). The nests are generally made in shallow scrapes in heath or grassland behind the beach (4), with most egg-laying occurring between September and December (2). Although the chicks leave the nest at an early age, it is common to see parents watchfully minding their offspring as they scurry along the beach (2).