Horned Grebe
Image: Carol McDougall (cc-by-nc)
NameHorned Grebe
Common NameHorned Grebe
Scientific NamePodiceps auritus
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)66.5
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)435
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the Horned Grebe has a black head with prominent golden-orange ear tufts (horns), a black back, rufous flanks, and a white belly. Its eyes are bright red. In non-breeding plumage, it is plainer, with a dark grey back, white cheeks and throat, a dark cap, and a white belly.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of trills, whines, croaks, and chattering calls, particularly during the breeding season. They are generally quiet outside of breeding.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, coastal waters, estuaries
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America and Eurasia, migrating to coastal waters and large inland lakes in temperate regions for winter. Its range includes parts of Canada, the northern United States, Iceland, Scandinavia, and Russia.
Identifying Featuresgolden-orange ear tufts (breeding plumage), red eyes, rufous flanks (breeding plumage), small size, thin, pointed bill, diving behavior
Description
The Horned Grebe is a small diving waterbird found on freshwater bodies during breeding and coastal waters in winter. It is known for its distinctive breeding plumage featuring golden ear tufts and rufous flanks, and its habit of diving frequently for food.
