Red Phalarope (Phalaropus fulicaria), Cochise Lake (aka Twin Lakes), Willcox,
Cochise County

This Red Phalarope was found and photographed on 08 January 2008 by Homer Hansen. Red Phalarope is a casual transient at ponds, lakes, and rivers from western to southeastern Arizona, with most records occurring during the late fall. As the most pelagic of the three phalarope species, it is the least likely to be observed inland but is the most likely phalarope to be observed during late fall and early winter. This individual was observed concurrent with observations of two other Red Phalaropes at Whitewater Draw.

This Red Phalarope is in basic (nonbreeding) plumage and is distinguished from the similar Red-necked Phalarope by the heavier bill with pale coloration at the base. In basic plumage the Red Phalarope also lacks the white fringes to the mantle and scapular feathers that are visible on the Red-necked Phalarope.

Red Phalarope is an ABC sketch details species. The ABC and North American Birds editors request that minimal (sketch) details of sightings of these species be turned in for the sighting to be included in the NAB seasonal report, and for that sighting to be considered "official" with regard to the records keeping for the state. Sketch details should include a brief description of the bird and circumstances surrounding the sighting.  Sketch details can be sent to the NAB regional editors: Gary Rosenberg (ghrosenberg AT comcast.net) or Mark Stevenson (drbrdr AT att.net). 

 

8 January 2008 photos by Homer Hansen