Silvery Grebe
NameSilvery Grebe
Common NameSilvery Grebe
Scientific NamePodiceps occipitalis
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)350
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark grey back, silvery-grey flanks, and a white breast and belly. The head is dark with a prominent, spiky rufous-buff crest on the sides of the crown, contrasting with bright red eyes and a slender black bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of trilling, chattering, and whistling notes, often given in display or alarm.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in South America, primarily in the Andes mountain range from Colombia south to Tierra del Fuego, and also in some lowland areas of Argentina and Chile.
Identifying Featuresbright red eyes, rufous-buff crest, slender black bill, white neck and breast, chicks carried on back
Description
This small to medium-sized grebe is characterized by its striking rufous-buff crest and bright red eyes. Highly aquatic, it is often seen diving for food and famously carries its downy chicks on its back.
