Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius: A Kimberley Record with Comments on Morphological and Vocal Aspects of Eastern Populations

Abstract

A Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius curonicus seen in the Kimberley Division in northern Western Australia is described, and the criteria used for subspecific identification given. It is suggested that leg colour distinguishes C. d. curonicus originating in the Eastern Palearctic from those of the same subspecies in the west. At least some individuals from eastern populations also differ in having white tips on the central tail feathers and more colour at the base of the bill. Call and several morphological characters distinguish the nominate subspecies resident in New Guinea. The taxonomy of eastern populations of Little Ringed Plovers needs more work, with special consideration given to calls and colour of bare parts.