Horned Grebe
NameHorned Grebe
Common NameHorned Grebe
Scientific NamePodiceps auritus
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)66
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)435
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the Horned Grebe has a black head with prominent golden-orange 'horns' or ear tufts extending from behind its bright red eyes. Its neck and flanks are rich rufous-chestnut, contrasting with a dark back and white belly. In winter, it has a black cap, white cheeks, a dark grey back, and a white underside.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of whines, trills, croaks, and chattering calls, particularly during courtship. They are generally quiet outside of the breeding season.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, coastal waters, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America and Eurasia, including parts of Alaska, Canada, northern Europe, and Siberia. Winters along coastal areas of North America (both Atlantic and Pacific coasts) and Europe/Asia.
Identifying FeaturesGolden-orange ear tufts (breeding plumage), Bright red eyes, Rufous-chestnut neck and flanks (breeding plumage), Black cap and white cheeks (winter plumage), Small size, Diving behavior
Description
The Horned Grebe is a small, migratory diving waterbird known for its striking breeding plumage. It is often found on freshwater lakes and ponds during the breeding season, moving to coastal waters for the winter. These birds are expert divers, pursuing aquatic prey underwater.
