American Oystercatcher

American Oystercatcher (Haematopus palliatus galapagensis)

A Striking Shorebird of the Galapagos

The American Oystercatcher is one of the most distinctive coastal birds in the Galapagos. With its glossy black head, white underparts, and vivid orange-red bill, it is a familiar sight along sandy beaches and rocky shores. Its long, laterally flattened bill is perfectly shaped to pry open the shells of molluscs and crustaceans, and the bird can often be seen running along the intertidal zone, pulling small creatures from the wet sand.

Heavily built and unmistakable in flight, it shows a bold white wing patch and rump that contrast sharply with its dark plumage. Its bright yellow eyes, encircled by a red ring, and its short, pale pink legs complete its striking appearance. The call, a high, shrill “kle-e-ep”, is often heard echoing across the coast as pairs defend their feeding grounds.

The Galapagos Subspecies

The birds of the archipelago belong to the endemic subspecies Haematopus palliatus galapagensis, found nowhere else on Earth. Across the Americas, oystercatchers are known for their close association with marine environments, and the Galapagos population is no exception. While other oystercatcher species in the world may inhabit rivers or estuaries, those in the Western Hemisphere remain almost entirely coastal.

In Galapagos, the oystercatcher population is small, with an estimated 200 breeding pairs. They are most often seen on sandy beaches, rocky shores, and coastal lagoons, where they nest between October and March. The female typically lays two to four eggs in a shallow scrape above the high tide line, and chicks leave the nest almost immediately after hatching.

A Survivor of Near Extinction

Once heavily hunted for their striking plumage and eggs, American Oystercatchers were almost wiped out in the 19th century. Thanks to protection and habitat recovery, they have made a strong comeback and are now regularly seen on many Galapagos beaches. The species’ success here reflects both the resilience of the islands’ wildlife and the ongoing conservation efforts that protect fragile coastal habitats.

Guardians of Coastal Health

Beyond their striking appearance, oystercatchers play an important ecological role. As specialists of the shoreline, their presence signals the health of marine and intertidal ecosystems. Across the Americas, conservationists monitor oystercatchers as indicators of changing coastal conditions and habitat quality. The Galapagos population benefits from the same protection measures that safeguard other coastal species, ensuring that their calls continue to ring out along the island shores.

Where to See Them

The American Oystercatcher is found throughout most of the Galapagos Islands, including Santa Cruz. They are often seen in pairs or small groups along beaches and tidal flats, feeding or resting at the water’s edge. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot them, as they forage with the changing tides.