Little Grebe

15 hours ago

Spotted

The Little Grebe is the smallest of the grebes, often seen diving on small bodies of water. In breeding plumage, it has a rich chestnut neck and cheeks, with a distinctive pale spot at the base of its bill.

Where to spot

Widespread across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australasia. Found on small to medium-sized freshwater bodies, including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, canals, and reservoirs, especially those with emergent vegetation.

How to spot

Look for its small, dumpy shape, chestnut head and neck (in summer), and a distinctive pale yellowish spot at the base of its short, dark bill. It frequently dives, often disappearing for long periods. Listen for its rapid, trilling 'trrrrrrr' call.

When to spot

Resident year-round in many parts of its range, though northern populations may move to larger, unfrozen waters in winter. Best observed during the breeding season (spring to summer) when more vocal and active.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

Credits: kleijweg1

Credits: Takashi_Yanagisawa

Credits: TheOtherKev

Credits: naturepic

Credits: Lancier

Credits: naturepic

Little Grebes have an unusual habit of swallowing their own feathers, often in large quantities. This is believed to help with digestion, perhaps by forming a protective lining in the stomach or aiding in the expulsion of fish bones.

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