The Red-necked Phalarope are now in California marshland. The birds, like their name indicates, have a chestnut red ring around their throats. This bird species exhibits reverse sex characteristics. The females are both brighter and larger than males. They also pursue the male to mate and after hatching migrate south leaving their mate to incubate the pair's eggs and protect their young.

An interesting behavior of the Red-necked Phalarope is its summer feeding method. Groups of the bird will circle together in the ocean, creating a whirlpool that draws insects and small invertebrates to the surface of these convergence zones.

Because these birds are pelagic, they are especially vulnerable to oil spills. Take a moment today to protect this beautiful bird from spills, by asking our President to stop Shell from drilling in the Arctic.

(Red-necked Phalarope chick by Elaine Rhode/USFWS)