A–Z Index of Shorebirds & Coastal Birds

Shorebirds are some of the most fascinating and easy-to-spot birds along beaches, bays, and coastal wetlands. This A–Z guide brings together a growing list of shorebirds found along U.S. coastlines, making it easy to identify what you’re seeing on your next walk by the water.
From tiny birds darting along the water’s edge to tall, graceful birds standing quietly near the dunes, each plays an important role in the coastal ecosystem.
This guide is designed for beach lovers of all experience levels. Whether you’re curious about a bird you just saw or simply enjoy learning about coastal wildlife, you’ll find easy-to-understand information, clear photos, and helpful tips throughout this collection.

	American Oystercatcher Striking black-and-white shorebird with long bright orange bill Learn more about the American Oystercatcher
	Black Skimmer Unique seabird that skims the water with its lower bill Learn more about the Black Skimmer
	Black-bellied Plover Large plover known for bold black belly during breeding season Learn more about the Black-bellied Plover
	Brown Pelican Large coastal pelican famous for dramatic plunge-diving for fish. Learn more about the Brown Pelican
	Dunlin Small sandpiper with curved bill and black belly in breeding season Learn more about the Dunlin
	Great Blue Heron Tall wading bird with long legs and slow, deliberate movements Learn more about the Great Blue Heron
	Greater Yellowlegs Tall sandpiper with bright yellow legs and sharp alarm calls Learn more about the Greater Yellowlegs
	Laughing Gull Noisy coastal gull known for its distinctive laughing call Learn more about the Laughing Gull
	Least Tern Tiny tern with yellow bill and quick hovering fishing style Learn more about the Least Tern
	Marbled Godwit Large cinnamon-colored shorebird with long slightly upturned bill Learn more about the Marbled Godwit
	Piping Plover A small shorebird with a big story Learn more about the Piping Plover
	Royal Tern Large tern with shaggy black crest and sharp orange bill Learn more about the Royal Tern
	Ruddy Turnstone The shorebird that flips the beach over Learn more about the Ruddy Turnstone
	Sanderling The little shorebird that chases the waves. Learn more about the Sanderling
	Semipalmated Plover Small plover with a single black neck band and quick movements Learn more about the Semipalmated Plover
	Snowy Egret Elegant white wading bird with bright yellow feet Learn more about the Snowy Egret
	Willet The common shorebird most people overlook Learn more about the Willet