This cryptic species blends well in its preferred habitat of sparse grassland. It tends to be rather shy, usually seen at a distance facing away from the observer or in flight, so I was happy to get this photo showing the tawny throat and black belly patch. This unique species is the only member of the genus Oreopholus. Some authorities include it along with the Eurasian Dotterel in the genus Eudromias. However the resemblance appears to be superficial and most authors now merge Eudromias with the typical plovers into Charadrius. This individual is of the partially migratory nominate race. A distinctive smaller, paler, less gray subspecies (O. r. pallidus) is resident on the coast of northern Peru and adjacent Ecuador.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LX5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA | hand-held (no adapter)