Dean M. Chriss
Photography
Ruddy Turnstone on Driftwood

Ruddy Turnstone on Driftwood

(Click image to enlarge)

The ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres) is a small wading bird that was formerly placed in the plover family but is now classified in the sandpiper family. It is a highly migratory bird that can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. It is the only species of turnstone in much of its range, and is often known simply as "turnstone".

This particular bird was found just before sunset probing barnacles on rocks. The photograph shown here was captured when the bird decided to search the nooks and crannies in a piece of driftwood for food.