This long-billed shorebird is found on sandy shores along the entire coast of SA, with the exception of the far west of the state, but is rarely found too far from the coast. Unlike its close relative, the Sooty Oystercatcher (H. fuliginosus), its black plumage is complemented by a white underbelly. Its long straight beak, eyes, and legs are all brick red in colour. Juveniles are a salt-and-pepper brown in the black parts, and are missing the intense red in the bill, eyes and legs.
