The Recurvirostridae family includes 7-9 living species of avocets and stilts. These shorebirds are found in wetlands, marshes, mudflats, lakeshores, and coastal areas on every continent except Antarctica.

Most avocets and stilts are about 12–18 inches (30.5–45.7 cm) tall. They have very long legs, long necks, and long, slender bills. Avocets have bills that curve upward at the tip, while stilts have straight bills.

Stilts are famous for their long reddish-pink legs. Avocets usually have bluish-gray legs. Avocets and the banded stilt have webbed front toes, which help them move through shallow water. Other stilts have only partial webbing between their toes.

Most avocets and stilts are patterned in black and white. During the breeding season, the American Avocet develops a rusty-red head and neck, which become grayish-white in winter. The red-necked avocet has a reddish-brown head and neck throughout the year.

These birds feed on small aquatic animals such as insects, crustaceans, mollusks, worms, and small fish. Avocets and stilts find food in different ways. Avocets sweep their heads from side to side through shallow water, using their curved bills to detect and catch prey. Stilts usually hunt by sight, picking up prey with their long, straight bills.

Most species nest on the ground near water. Their eggs and chicks are well camouflaged, helping protect them from predators. Young birds are precocial and can leave the nest and walk soon after hatching.