Red-Necked Phalarope

Phalaropus lobatus

Occasionally, in spring or fall, you can see Red-necked Phalaropes in the lagoon, stopping for a short while on their way between the Arctic Circle and the open ocean off the coast of Peru. In an unusual role reversal, females are more brightly colored and do the courting displays, while the males are entirely responsible for incubating the eggs and raising the chicks.

Fun Fact:
The females wear the bright colors instead of the males, which is unusual.

What’s for Lunch:
Worms, aquatic bugs, and larvae

Where’s Home:
The Arctic Circle in summer; the ocean off Peru in winter