The White-tufted Grebe is a small to medium-sized grebe found across South America, recognized by its chestnut neck and distinctive white tufts of feathers on its cheeks. It is a shy aquatic bird, often seen diving for food in freshwater bodies. This grebe is an excellent swimmer and diver.
Where to spot
Widespread across South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Tierra del Fuego. Inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and marshes.
How to spot
Look for its dark upperparts, chestnut neck and flanks, and the prominent white feather tufts on the cheeks, especially during breeding season. Observe its characteristic diving behavior for prey, often disappearing for long periods. Use binoculars to appreciate its head details.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range. Breeding occurs during spring and summer in temperate regions. Best observed during daylight hours, often at dawn or dusk when it might be more active. Look for it on open water.
Where to spot
Widespread across South America, from Colombia and Venezuela south to Tierra del Fuego. Inhabits a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and marshes.
How to spot
Look for its dark upperparts, chestnut neck and flanks, and the prominent white feather tufts on the cheeks, especially during breeding season. Observe its characteristic diving behavior for prey, often disappearing for long periods. Use binoculars to appreciate its head details.
When to spot
Resident year-round in much of its range. Breeding occurs during spring and summer in temperate regions. Best observed during daylight hours, often at dawn or dusk when it might be more active. Look for it on open water.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Like other grebes, the White-tufted Grebe often consumes its own feathers, possibly to help form pellets that aid in digestion or to protect its stomach lining from sharp fish bones.
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