Wilson’s phalarope
Quick Summary
Wilson's phalarope (Steganopus tricolor) is a species of shorebird found in the family Scolopacidae. These birds are native to the northern Great Plains in Canada and interior western North America, migrating to the Argentine pampas.12
Phalaropes are known for their unique reversal of sex roles. Females are larger and more brightly colored, initiating courtship and defending nesting territories, while males handle all nesting duties and lead the young south after the females depart. In summer, phalaropes display red and gray plumage, transitioning to gray and white in winter.2
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