Avocets are elegant wading birds with slender legs and a distinctive upturned bill. Synonyms for avocets include spoonbills, stilts, and waders. Spoonbills are named for their spoon-shaped bill and are often found in shallow water searching for food. Stilts have long, thin legs and are known for their ability to wade in deep water. Waders, as the name suggests, are birds that wade in water while searching for prey. In addition to these synonyms, avocets can also be called mud-pipers, marsh ducks, and reed-pickers. These birds are commonly found in wetlands and estuaries and are known for their graceful flight and distinctive calls.