Habitat:
Rocky coasts, pebble beaches

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Black Turnstone is a medium-sized shorebird, easily identified by its dark head contrasting with its lighter body. It primarily inhabits the rocky coasts of the North Pacific, from Alaska to California. Known for its active behavior, it flips stones and algae to find food, mainly marine invertebrates. Often seen in small groups, especially outside the breeding season, it is relatively tolerant of human presence but prefers less disturbed areas for feeding and resting. Its population is stable, though it remains vulnerable to coastal habitat disturbances.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Black Turnstone, opt for mornings or late afternoons when the light is soft. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture details without disturbing the bird. Wait near rocky coasts where it feeds, and be ready to adjust your position to follow its quick movements. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially if using a long focal length.