Wilson's Phalarope

The Wilson's phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor) is a small and elegant wader, the largest of its kind among the phalaropes. It exhibits a striking sexual dimorphism: the breeding female sports a splendid gray and brown plumage above, with a bold reddish neck and flank patches, while the male is somewhat less vibrant, with a brown back and more subdued or absent reddish tones.

Identification Tips

This species can be identified by its slender build, lobed toes, and a straight, fine black bill. In breeding plumage, females are more colorful than the males. Juveniles and non-breeding adults are grey and white with a distinctive dark eyepatch. The wingspan ranges from 15.3 to 16.9 inches, and they weigh between 1.3 and 3.9 ounces.

Habitat

Wilson's phalaropes breed in the prairies of North America, favoring open landscapes with access to shallow water bodies.

Distribution

These birds are migratory, breeding in western Canada and the western United States, and wintering near inland salt lakes in Argentina. They are also known to be passage migrants through Central America.

Behaviour

Wilson's phalaropes are known for their tameness and approachability. They exhibit a unique feeding behavior, swimming in tight circles to create whirlpools, which brings prey to the surface. The species also has reversed sexual roles, with females being the more aggressive sex, defending territories and leaving males to incubate the eggs and care for the young.

Song & Calls

The calls of the Wilson's phalarope are typically soft and subtle, often described as a gentle "weet-weet-weet."

Breeding

Females are larger and more brightly colored than males. They compete for mates and territories, leaving the males to incubate the eggs post-laying. The nest is a simple scrape on the ground near water, where 3 to 4 eggs are laid.

Similar Species

The Wilson's phalarope can be confused with other phalarope species, but its larger size and the female's distinctive breeding plumage set it apart.

Diet and Feeding

These birds feed on small insects and crustaceans, which they pluck from the water's surface or from the vortex they create while swimming.

Conservation Status

The Wilson's phalarope is currently listed as Least Concern, but its population may be affected by the loss of prairie wetland habitats. Certain migratory staging areas are critical for their survival during migration.