Stilt, a graceful wading bird related to the avocet. Stilts are found in marshlands and pools and in salty, brackish, and freshwater lakes in tropical and temperate regions throughout the world. They feed primarily on small water animals. Stilts build nests of mud and vegetation. The female lays three to five clay-colored eggs that have black spots and blotches.
The black-necked stilt is found from the southern United States to northern South America. It is about 15 inches (38 cm) long and has a long, thin black bill and long, slender red legs. Plumage is black above, white below.
Stilts are of the genus Himantopus, family Recurvirostridae. The black-necked stilt is Himantopus mexicanus.