The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) admitted a Red-necked Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) that was unable to fly. This small migratory shorebird was found far from its Arctic breeding grounds during its long annual migration. 

During the initial examination, the patient was moderately dehydrated, and the veterinary team noticed a slight droop of the left wing. Further evaluation revealed fractures of both the radius and ulna. To stabilize the fractures and allow them to heal, the team placed a figure-8 bandage. 

Wing injuries are especially significant for migratory birds like the Red-necked Phalarope, which depend on flight not only to find food and avoid predators, but also to travel thousands of miles between their breeding and wintering grounds. 

All About Phalaropes

Red-necked Phalaropes are small, pelagic shorebirds, meaning they spend most of their time at sea, so they are extremely capable swimmers. Their small, buoyant bodies allow them to move easily across the water while searching for food. They can often be seen swimming in tight circles, bringing plankton to the surface to eat.

Red-necked Phalaropes are also unusual when it comes to breeding behavior. Unlike many bird species, females are more brightly colored than males during the breeding season. They turn from grey to deep brown with a reddish ring around the neck.

Females compete for nesting territories and mates, then select a male to raise their young. After laying her eggs, the female leaves the male to incubate them.  The male takes on the responsibility of caring for the chicks after they hatch. This fascinating arrangement makes the Red-necked Phalarope a standout among North American shorebirds.

CROW Case A Week stories are patient features written by Jordan Bryant, CROW’s Education and Marketing Intern. These stories appear weekly in Santiva Chronicle.