red phalarope

The red phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius) is a species of shorebird found in the Arctic regions of both the Old and New Worlds. These birds are part of the Scolopacidae family and are known for their unique reversal of sex roles, where females are larger and more colorful, initiating courtship, while males handle nesting and caring for the young.12

Red phalaropes are characterized by their red and gray summer plumage, transitioning to gray and white in winter. They often gather in large flocks and can be found far out at sea. In Britain, the red phalarope is known as the gray phalarope. This species winters on tropical oceans, where it is sometimes referred to as a sea snipe.21