Comparisons between American Golden Plover and Black-bellied Plover

American Golden Plover summer plumage

Approximately 3 years ago I wrote a blog about the American Golden Plover. I thought for this blog I would demonstrate the differences between the American Golden Plover and the Black-bellied Plover especially when they are not in their breeding plumage and can be easily confused.

Black-bellied Plover winter plumage

American Golden Plover winter plumage

Both plovers breed in the Arctic tundra. The American Golden Plover migrates self over the Atlantic Ocean south to South America. The Black-bellied Plover can be found on six continents during the winter and does pass through Massachusetts.

Usually Black-bellied Plover are found along the shore or in plowed fields while the American Golden Plover is usually found in marshes or in plowed fields.

Black-bellied Plover winter plumage

American Golden Plover transitioning into winter plumage

Black-bellied Plover summer plumage

American Golden Plover summer plumage