Horned Grebe
Image: hmcook (cc-by-nc)
NameHorned Grebe
Common NameHorned Grebe
Scientific NamePodiceps auritus
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)62
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)430
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the Horned Grebe has a black head with prominent golden-orange 'horns' or tufts behind the eyes, a reddish-chestnut neck and flanks, a black back, and a white belly. In non-breeding plumage (as seen in the image), it has a dark cap extending below the eye, clean white cheeks and throat, a dark greyish-black back, and white flanks and belly.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of reedy whistles, trills, whines, and croaks, often given during courtship displays or to communicate with mates and chicks.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, coastal bays, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America and Eurasia. Winters along the coasts and on large inland bodies of water in temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, compact diving bird, Dark cap and clean white cheeks in non-breeding plumage, Golden-orange 'horns' and reddish flanks in breeding plumage, Red eyes (when visible), Small, pointed bill
Description
The Horned Grebe is a small, compact diving waterbird found on freshwater lakes and ponds during breeding season and coastal waters in winter. It is known for its distinctive head plumes during breeding, though the individual in the image displays its more subdued non-breeding plumage.
