This nomadic Australian endemic breeds in dense temporary colonies at remote inland desert saline lakes when water levels are suitable. Its nest remained a mystery until discovered in 1930. The species is considered vulnerable in parts of its range because of high rates of predation by Silver Gulls. In South Australia the government has undertaken to control gull numbers to protect the Banded Stilts.
Banded Stilt behavior and anatomy have led some authorities (e.g. Feduccia) to consider them the closest living relative of the flamingos. They are placed in their own genus, Cladorhynchus. Their two coats of natal down are unique among shorebirds but similar to that of flamingoes. However this stilt/flamingo relationship does not appear to be supported by genetic studies.
In this photo, the bird showing blue legs at the far right is a Red-necked Avocet.
Digiscoped with Panasonic DMC-LZ5 | Nikon FieldScope III | 30XWA | hand-held (no adapter)