High in the mountains of our Costa Rican retreat, the symphony of birdsong fills the air. But venture beyond our lush haven, and Costa Rica’s avian diversity explodes across a breathtaking range of habitats. Today, we set our sights on a remarkable visitor gracing our Pacific shores – the Red-necked Phalarope.

Imagine a tiny ballerina, pirouetting tirelessly across the ocean’s surface. That’s the Red-necked Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) in action. This exceptional shorebird, no bigger than a robin, is a whirlwind of activity on the high seas. While not a common sight in Costa Rica, these globe-trotting marvels grace our Pacific waters during migration, offering a fleeting glimpse into their fascinating world.

A Master of Motion:

The Red-necked Phalarope’s claim to fame lies in its unique feeding technique. Unlike most shorebirds that probe for food in mud or shallows, the phalarope prefers the open ocean. Its secret weapon? Lobed toes that act like miniature paddles, propelling it across the water with remarkable agility.

But the real magic unfolds when the phalarope goes into a feeding frenzy. It spins rapidly in tight circles, stirring up plankton and tiny crustaceans near the surface. This frenetic dance, known as “whirling,” creates a miniature feeding vortex, making prey easy to snatch with its thin, needle-like bill.

A Fashion Show on the Fly:

The Red-necked Phalarope’s attire is as captivating as its dance. During breeding season in the Arctic tundra, females take center stage. They sport a dazzling plumage – dark grey above, with a striking chestnut neck and upper breast, offset by a black facial mask and a pristine white throat. Males, ever the gentlemen, don a more subdued version of this outfit.

Come winter, both sexes undergo a dramatic wardrobe change. Their breeding finery fades, replaced by a simpler coat of grey above and white below. However, the tell-tale black eye patch remains, a constant reminder of their vibrant personalities.

A Rare Encounter in Costa Rica:

While the Red-necked Phalarope is primarily an oceanic bird, sightings can occur along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, particularly during migration seasons (March-May and August-October). Patience and keen observation are key, as they’re often spotted quite far out at sea.

Here at our mountain retreat, while you might not be lucky enough to witness the Red-necked Phalarope’s incredible dance, Costa Rica’s incredible avian diversity is sure to leave you breathless. From the resplendent quetzal to the comical toucan, our birding tours offer a chance to encounter a vibrant tapestry of feathered friends.

So, keep your eyes peeled on your Costa Rican adventure. You never know when a Red-necked Phalarope might grace you with its whirlwind presence!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica