Wilson's Phalarope (Phalaropus tricolor)

This unique shorebird graces us with its presence during spring and fall migration as it travels between its breeding grounds in the interior of the Province and its wintering grounds in South America. Almost all records for this species in the checklist area occur in the month of May. While shorebird species can swim, none take to it quite like the phalaropes who have dense, bouyant plumage and lobed toes. Phalaropes will feed in shallow water or along the edge of water like other shorebirds, but they will also use their swimming ability in deeper water to pick food off the surface. Adding to their unique feeding habit, they will also spin around in the water like a top to create an upwelling to cause food items to rise up from the bottom so they can reach it. Females are much more brightly coloured than the males in the phalaropes. Also, males are responsible for incubating the eggs and raising the young as the female will often leave after she lays her eggs.

Similar species:
In breeding colours, they are fairly distinctive. Juveniles are similar in a sense to yellowlegs. Red-necked Phalarope juveniles are smaller, darker with more distinct markings on the head and face.

Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Sibley, D. (2000)

Noteworthy Data

Photos