Red-necked phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus)

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The red-necked phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) is a small wader.

Description

The red-necked phalarope is about 18 cm (7.1 in) in length, with lobed toes and a straight, fine bill. The breeding female is predominantly dark grey above, with a chestnut neck and upper breast, black face and white throat. They have a white wing stripe which helps distinguish this bird from the similar Wilson’s phalarope. The breeding male is a duller version of the female.

They have lobed toes to assist with their swimming. Young birds are grey and brown above, with buff underparts and a black patch through the eye. In winter, the plumage is essentially grey above and white below, but the black eyepatch is always present. They have a sharp call described as a whit or twit.

In autumn is a normaly bird for the lakes near the Black Sea.

photo: Mihai BACIU

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