Killdeer, Malheur National Widlife Refuge, Oregon
Copyright © 1996, Don Baccus
Killdeer, Riley Pond, Oregon
Copyright © 1996, Don Baccus
Copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
All images copyright © 1995, Don Baccus
Killdeer are extremely common members of the plover family, nesting on gravel roads, mudflats, and many other places throughout the area. They are very vocal, and are named for their "kill-deer! kill-deer!" call. Many non-birders know of killdeer because they perform a classic and often described "broken-wing" display when intruders approach their nest or young.
These medium-sized plovers are readily differentiated from other members of the family by the two black bands across the neck and chest, and of course, their call.
Killdeer are the bane of the shorebird photographer, as they generally begin calling as soon as they see an approaching person. This often leads to flocks of skittish shorebirds flying off in all directions.
On the other hand, killdeer are so common that the photographer is bound to run across fairly tolerant individuals eventually.
Since they often nest on gravel roads, or on the gravel shoulder of paved roads, they can be photographed from the car quite easily. Killdeer are often not fooled by the car-blind trick, though, so be prepared for frustration as well as success!
As with all shorebirds, Riley Pond, with its still, reflective surface, is one of my favorite spots for photographing killdeer. They are so common, though, that good photo opportunities can be had virtually anywhere in the area that has water nearby.