\Turn"stone`\, n. (Zo["o]l.)
Any species of limicoline birds of the genera {Strepsilas}
and {Arenaria}, allied to the plovers, especially the common
American and European species ({Strepsilas interpres}). They
are so called from their habit of turning up small stones in
search of mollusks and other aquatic animals. Called also
{brant bird}, {sand runner}, {sea quail}, {sea lark},
{sparkback}, and {skirlcrake}.
{Black turnstone}, the California turnstone ({Arenaria
   melanocephala}). The adult in summer is mostly black,
   except some white streaks on the chest and forehead, and
   two white loral spots.