The American AvocetRecurvirostra americanis has been called by some the most elegant bird in North America. Its graceful curves and movements are a delight to behold. They are commonly found in mudflats. These photographs were taken at the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary in Irvine CA. It contains three mudflats and many ponds and riparian forests. This is also the home of the Sea and Sage Audubon Society with a bookstore and small museum.
This shows the winter plumage of the American Avocet. All black and white, no tan. This male has a fairly straight bill. In the female it is much more curved.