phalarope
/ˈfæləroʊp/
noun
- A small wading bird that swims on the surface of water and has lobed toes. Phalaropes are known for the unusual behavior where the female is more brightly colored than the male and courts the male.
- During migration, phalaropes can be seen in large flocks on coastal bays.
- We spotted a red phalarope spinning in circles on the lake to stir up food.
- The phalarope's lobed toes help it paddle efficiently across the water's surface.