Species profile
About this species
The Red-necked Phalarope is a small, elegant wading bird known for its distinctive rufous-red neck patch during breeding plumage. Unusually among birds, the female is more brightly coloured than the male, & it is the male who incubates the eggs & raises the chicks. This species is highly migratory, breeding in Arctic & subarctic regions before travelling to tropical oceanic waters for winter.
Breeds on shallow, boggy pools & wetlands in Arctic & subarctic tundra & moorland. During migration & winter, it is pelagic, spending much of its time on open ocean waters, though it can also be found on coastal lagoons & inland freshwater bodies during passage.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Red-necked Phalarope with us in Iceland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late May to July during the breeding season in northern Scotland, Iceland & Scandinavia offers the best opportunity to photograph birds in full breeding plumage. Early morning light provides soft, warm tones & the birds tend to be most active at feeding sites during this time.
Approach slowly & use a low angle to capture eye-level shots of this small bird feeding at the water's surface, as this creates a more intimate & engaging composition. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze the bird's rapid spinning behaviour as it whirls on the water to stir up food. Overcast light can be beneficial when photographing this species, as it reduces harsh reflections off the water & brings out the rich rufous tones of the breeding plumage.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Red-necked Phalarope
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.