Horned Grebe
NameHorned Grebe
Common NameHorned Grebe
Scientific NamePodiceps auritus
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)66
Length (cm)34.5
Weight (g)435
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, the Horned Grebe has a black head with distinctive golden-orange, fan-shaped tufts (horns) extending from behind its bright red eyes. Its neck and flanks are a rich chestnut-red, contrasting with a dark grey-black back and a white belly. Winter plumage is duller, primarily black and white.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but during the breeding season, they produce a variety of vocalizations including trills, whines, and croaks, often used in courtship displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater wetlands, lakes, ponds, rivers, coastal waters, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern North America and Eurasia, including Alaska, Canada, and parts of northern Europe and Asia. Winters along coastal waters and large inland lakes further south in both continents.
Identifying FeaturesBright red eye, Golden-orange 'horns' behind eyes (breeding plumage), Chestnut-red neck and flanks (breeding plumage), Black head and back (breeding plumage), Slender, pointed bill, Frequent diving behavior
Description
The Horned Grebe is a small to medium-sized diving waterbird, easily recognized by its striking breeding plumage. It is an agile swimmer and diver, frequently found on freshwater bodies during breeding and coastal waters in winter.
