Red Phalarope
NameRed Phalarope
Common NameRed Phalarope
Scientific NamePhalaropus fulicarius
FamilyScolopacidae
Wingspan (cm)38.5
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsBreeding adults have a reddish-brown body, a dark blackish-brown cap, and a prominent white cheek patch. The back is streaked with black, buff, and white. The bill is yellow with a black tip.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but produces a high-pitched, sharp 'whit' or 'kip' call, often given in flight or when alarmed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, tundra, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the high Arctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters pelagically in temperate and tropical oceans, often far offshore.
Identifying FeaturesReddish breeding plumage, Dark cap with white cheek patch, Yellow bill with black tip, Lobed toes, Spinning feeding behavior on water
Description
The Red Phalarope is a small, highly aquatic shorebird known for its unique feeding behavior of spinning on water. In breeding plumage, it exhibits striking reddish underparts and a distinctive head pattern. It breeds in Arctic wetlands and spends winters far out at sea.
