Monday, May 19, 2025

Surprise Visitor

 

Red-necked Phalarope, Blue Heron Lake

I was watching the great blue heron nest when I noticed a strange, small bird on the lake. As it got closer I recognized it as a red-necked phalarope, which I've only seen before at Stump Beach (Salt Point State Park). These birds often forage by spinning in circles, but this one mostly preferred to keep its beak facing into the wind.


One of the three great blue heron nestlings has semi-fledged. That's him at the top of the tree.


The other two seemed like they were in a little bit of awe of their brave sibling. Unfortunately, I was watching the phalarope when the brave one finally floated back down to the nest after testing its wings several times.


Red-necked Phalarope


Video clips of the phalarope and the three great blue heron nestlings.

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