Mono Lake

National Geographic article on HSWRI research on Wilson’s phalaropes at Mono Lake. During June and July, these birds stop at this desolate inland sea to feed on brine shrimp to fatten up for their nonstop flight to Tierra del Fuego, at the tip of South America.  The article ends with the question, if Mono Lake continues to shrink and it’s salinity climbs, will it still be able to support vast numbers of Wilson’s phalaropes?

We are pleased to report that vast flocks of these birds still visit Mono Lake.

Publication:
Jehl, J.R. Jr. A Vital Way Station for the Wilson’s Phalarope. National Geographic. 160: 520-525. 1981.