Pied Avocet - photo and copyright © Rajiv Lather

Pied Avocet (Recurvirostra avosetta) is a scarce resident and winter visitor in Haryana. This bird is found in and near the wetlands.

Order: CICONIIFORMES    Family: Recurvirostrini    Size: 43-45 cm    Local Name: Kusya Chaha

Features: Sexes alike; this wetlands bird has a unique upcurved black bill, glistening white body and black head. It is found near brackish pools, jheels and swamps. The Pied Avocet has a black crown and nape, black wing tips, black covert patches and black scapular bars. The secondaries are pure white.