Erythrogonys cinctus Gould, 1838

Nomenclature

This species, Erythrogonys cinctus Gould, 1838, is commonly known as the red-kneed dotterel.

Adult Plumage Pattern

Adult red-kneed dotterels have distinctively patterned plumage. They have a black cap or hood that starts at the bill, extends below the eyes, and blends into the grey-brown color of the back at the nape. Their chin and throat are white.

Breast and Flank Markings

A broad black band crosses the breast, connects to the nape, and extends onto the flanks as a chestnut stripe. Their belly and vent are white.

Dorsal Plumage

The back and mantle are grey-brown. The upperwing is mainly black, with a white trailing edge.

Leg and Bill Characteristics

The upper part of the leg, including the tarsal joint (referred to as the "knee"), is red. The bill is red with a dark tip.

Native Range

This species is native to mainland Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. It has also been recorded as a vagrant in Tasmania, Palau, and New Zealand.

Habitat Preferences

It inhabits mainly the margins of shallow ephemeral and permanent freshwater wetlands. It can occasionally be found in saline wetlands, and only rarely occurs in tidal wetlands.

Diet Composition

Its diet consists of arthropods, molluscs, annelids, and seeds.