Pic of the Day

Wilson’s Phalarope (female), Phalaropus tricolor: Bear River Bird Sanctuary; Brigham, Utah

    Wilson’s Phalaropes (all three phalaropes species actually) are among the few birds where sex roles are reversed.  Females are larger and brighter colored than the males.  The females pursue males, compete for and defend territory.  Once mated, the female will lay eggs and leaves the male to incubate and care for their young by himself.  I found this, and many other Wilson’s Phalaropes at the Bear River Bird Sanctuary near Brigham, Utah where they pass through during the spring migration.

Nikon D800, Nikkor 500mm f4, 1/640 seconds @ f8