White-tufted Grebe
NameWhite-tufted Grebe
Common NameWhite-tufted Grebe
Scientific NameRollandia rolland
FamilyPodicipedidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black head, neck, and upperparts, with prominent white tufts of feathers behind the bright red eyes. The flanks are rufous-chestnut, and the underparts are whitish. The bill is slender and black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of trills, whistles, and chattering calls, often given during breeding displays or as contact calls.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south through Argentina and Chile, including the Falkland Islands.
Identifying Featureswhite tufts behind eye, bright red eye, dark plumage, small size, diving behavior
Description
This small, dark grebe is characterized by its striking white tufts of feathers behind the eyes and bright red irises. It is an aquatic bird, typically found diving for food in freshwater habitats across its South American range.
