Red Phalarope (Phalaropus fulicarius), Saddlebrook Ranch , Pinal County

This Red Phalarope was found and  photographed by Jon Swanson on 01 October 2018

Red Phalaropes are casual transients in Arizona. Although they have occurred in nearly every month of the year, they are mostly found in the late fall and early winter. Less than 5 records for Pinal County.

Largely in juvenile plumage but notice the incoming gray coverts. Back is dark but lacks distinct stripes that Red-necked shows. Also note the stout bill with pale at the base of it.

01 October 2018, photo by Jon Swanson

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