The Oystercatcher is a medium-sized bird, characterized by contrasting black-and-white plumage and a long red-orange beak. Its legs are pale pink, and its eyes are ringed with red. Adults measure about 40–45 cm in length. It feeds mainly on mollusks and crustaceans, using its sturdy bill to crack open shells. Oystercachers are found primarily along coastlines, but they may also frequent the banks of rivers and inland lakes. They nest in colonies on sandy or gravelly beaches, generally laying 2–4 eggs. During migration, they can cover long distances, moving to milder climates for the winter.