Black oystercatchers are found on the rocky shoreline of western North America, ranging from Baja California to Alaska. These birds were photographed in Katmai National Park, where we saw them trying to feed at low tide.
The bird is characterized by its bright red bill and pink legs. It feeds on marine invertebrates, especially mussels and limpets, using its strong bill to pry shells open.
There are only about 11,000 black oystercatchers alive, and while they are not considered threatened they are undergoing conservation efforts.
