Red Phalarope

Overview

The red phalarope, also known as the grey phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius), is a small wader that breeds in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is a migratory species that, unusually for a wader, travels mainly on oceanic routes and winters at sea on tropical oceans.

Identification

• Length of approximately 21 cm with lobed toes and a straight bill that is somewhat thicker than that of the red-necked phalarope.
• Breeding females are predominantly dark brown and black above with red underparts and white cheek patches; breeding males appear duller.
• Winter plumage is essentially grey above and white below, with a black bill and a persistent black eye patch.
• Produces a short 'beek' call.

Habitat

This species breeds in the Arctic regions of North America and Eurasia. It is migratory and winters at sea on tropical oceans, where it is often found in areas with converging ocean currents producing upwellings or near groups of whales. Outside of the nesting season, it often travels in flocks.

Diet

The bird forages by swimming in small, rapid circles to form whirlpools, which raise food from the bottom of shallow water, allowing it to pluck small insects or crustaceans. It sometimes flies up to catch insects in flight. Chicks mainly feed on Diptera, including Chironomidae, Tipulidae, Empididae, Trichoceridae, and Culicidae.

Did you know?

Typical avian sex roles are reversed in this species, with females being larger and more brightly coloured than males. Females pursue males, compete for nesting territory, and leave them to incubate the eggs and care for the young.