Phalarope question

Hello Photogs and Birders,

This is more a birding question. I appreciate those who will weigh in on whether these are a pair of Wilson's or one Wilson's and one Red-Necked Phalarope.

For the photogs in us, these birds were a long way out. I rarely use my 1.4x extender but did in this case.

nice shots Greg, can't help with the ID

These are a pair of Wilson's. First off if these were taken in Northern Michigan, a Red-necked would be very unlikely. Second, if the bird that is molting had a complete rufous neck then it would be a Red-necked (they still have rufous necks when molting; just paler). However it has a definitive line separating the white neck and the rufous nape. Which suggests that this bird is a molting WIlson's.

But the number one reason that these are both Wilson's is the size. In these images, they are the same. However if one was to be a Red-Necked, then it would be significantly smaller than the Wilson's. (Wilson's: 9.25"L Red-necked: 7.75"L)

Hope this helps

Evan,

Thanks for taking the time to reply with such detailed info. Very helpful.