ML636691721

Observation details

Thanks to Eva Seay for alerting us this very cooperative breeding plumage Red Phalarope. They breed in the High Arctic and winter in the open ocean. Much of their migration takes place offshore but strong winds may push them towards land where they are unexpected. They are famous for reversed sex-roles. The larger and more brightly-plumaged females compete for mates, whereas males provide all parental care. I judge this one to be a male. It shows more extensive gold mantle stripes, more black on the bill, a streaked crown and the white eye patch blends with the red of the face. Often called "Grey Phalarope" in Europe.