Ruddy Turnstone

Arenaria interpres is a compact Arctic-breeding shorebird that regularly migrates to New Zealand. It differs from other small waders through its bold pied pattern and habit of flipping debris for food. Breeding birds show chestnut, black and white upperparts, while non-breeders are duller brown. Orange legs and a short wedge-shaped bill remain useful marks.

It visits coasts throughout New Zealand, including offshore and subantarctic islands. Birds breed in the Arctic and travel to southern shorelines for the non-breeding season. They turn stones, shells and seaweed to expose crustaceans, insects and molluscs. Small groups often feed along wrack lines and rocky margins.

The New Zealand classification is Migrant. Pūkorokoro Miranda, Farewell Spit and Kaikōura Peninsula regularly hold birds in summer.