Adults have two black breast bands above a white belly.

Brown upperparts, a relatively long tail, and a slender dark bill.

A bright orange-buff rump becomes conspicuous in flight or distraction displays.

Count bands, then check the shape

Adults combine two black chest bands with a brown back, white belly, and boldly patterned face. The large eye, slim bill, and long legs give a different impression from a small songbird. A rusty-orange rump becomes conspicuous when the bird takes flight or spreads its tail. ^[1]

A chick is not a miniature adult

The downy youngsters have one dark chest band and can walk soon after drying. Compare age as well as markings when using the photographs. An older bird's characteristic stop-start movement and head-bobbing can help even when its breast is hidden from view. ^[1]

Camouflage instead of a woven cup

The eggs rest in a shallow scrape on open ground. A pair may prepare several hollows before choosing one. Clutches contain 4–6 eggs, with incubation lasting about 22–28 days. Downy chicks can leave as soon as they dry. ^[2]

An adult dragging a wing may be distracting you from a nest or young. Stop approaching and give it space rather than following it or searching for the eggs. ^[2]

Named for its voice

The repeated, ringing call gave Killdeer their name. Earlier names included Noisy Plover and Chattering Plover, both emphasizing how often this bird announces its presence. ^[3]

Dry-land birds can swim

Adults are capable swimmers, and chicks can cross small streams. Seeing one in the water does not necessarily indicate that it is trapped or unable to cope. ^[3]

Decorating after the eggs arrive

Small stones and other objects can accumulate around a clutch after laying begins. Birds sometimes toss items backward into the scrape; a nest that began almost bare need not stay that way. ^[3]