This distinctive large black and white shorebird with the long orange bill can be found near the ocean and in saltwater marshes. As their name implies, they feed on oysters as well as clams and mussels, using their strong bill to get into the shells.

Oystercatchers have a distinctive whistle call which is often heard all night long at the beach. These birds are very active during mating season and do a lot of bowing and whistling in pairs or groups. Since they nest on the beach with other shorebirds, despite their size, they are frequently stalked and attacked by much smaller nesting birds defending their territories.  Look for banded oystercatchers and report the bands.  You will be helping researchers to learn more about the birds they are researching.