As its name implies, this species is usually seen singly or in small groups. In all plumages, note the tail pattern of dark central tail feathers and white outer tail feathers barred with blackish. Also note the white eye ring and white supraloral area. The wing tips extend just beyond the tail. In flight, the dark underside of the wings contrast with the white belly. Alternate Adult: Dark sooty-brown upperparts with small white spots are distinctive. The head, neck, and breast are finely streaked, while the chin and throat are white. Remainder of underparts are white. Legs yellow to yellow-green. Bill is light at the base, dark near the tip, and thin overall. Basic Adult: Similar to alternate, but less distinctly streaked on head and breast, and with fewer white spots on upperparts. Legs more greenish and bill darker. Juvenile: Upperparts are dark sooty-brown with bold white spots. Head and breast are solid brown, not streaked.

Length: 19 (cm) Wingspan: 38 (cm)

Voice:

Call is a high sharp Peet-Weet, or peet-weet-weet.

Habitat:

Nests near freshwater lakes and ponds surrounded by coniferous forest. In migration, favors freshwater ponds, wet meadows, drainage ditches.

Behavior:

Often bobs its head while foraging. Upon landing, holds its wings upright before slowly folding them.

Feeding:

Feeds primarily on insects. Also takes small crustaceans, mollusks, and frogs.