The Pied Oystercatcher is found around the entire Australian coastline however its numbers are threatened in New South Wales and it is listed as endangered in this state. It is commonly seen in the inter-tidal zone of beaches and bays where it forages on exposed sandbanks for molluscs, worms, crabs and small fish. The Oystercatcher’s name comes from its specialised bill that can be used to pry open shellfish.
As the tide goes out Pied Oystercatchers arrive to feed on the exposed sandbanks.
The Australian birds close relative, the South Island Pied Oystercatcher has been seen in New South Wales in recent years. The South Island version has a shorter bill and legs giving it a squatter appearance.
This Pied Oystercatcher has found a tasty worm but unfortunately it is too sandy for the bird.
A quick wash in a small puddle to remove the sand and down it goes.