Pied-billed Grebe
NamePied-billed Grebe
Common NamePied-billed Grebe
Scientific NamePodilymbus podiceps
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)43
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsOverall dull brown plumage, darker on the back and lighter on the flanks and belly. The head and neck are grayish-brown, with a prominent black throat patch during breeding season. The most distinctive feature is its thick, whitish bill encircled by a broad black band during the breeding season.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive series of cooing or 'cowp' notes, often described as 'cow-cow-cow-cowp' or 'coo-coo-coo-coo-cowp'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout the Americas, breeding from Canada south through the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, to South America. Northern populations migrate south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesThick, short, whitish bill with a black band (breeding plumage), Overall drab brown plumage, Black throat patch (breeding plumage), Often seen diving, White undertail patch
Description
The Pied-billed Grebe is a small, stocky diving bird with a distinctive thick bill. It is often found alone or in pairs, preferring to hide among emergent vegetation in freshwater habitats. This species is known for its ability to disappear silently underwater when alarmed.
