Gould described the habitat of the Turnstones as 'low islands, the strands of the seashore and borders of inland sea.' The Turnstone could also be seen, in beautiful condition, at the Zoological Gardens, Regent's Park, 'living in harmony with other birds'.

The adult Turnstones are depicted in the chestnut-red plumage of summer, with an adult in winter plumage in the background.

DISTRIBUTION: Breeds within thin coastal and insular band almost encircling Holarctic, between 83°N and 55°N. Winters south as far as South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, Polynesia and south South America