Podiceps auritus
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Mass
~450 g
Habitat
Wetlands and marshes
Diet
Fish and aquatic animals
How to recognize it
The Horned Grebe has a striking seasonal look. In spring and summer it shows a dark head with warm rufous tufts by the eyes, while in autumn and winter the plumage turns much paler and more subdued. On the water it keeps its head slightly tilted back, which makes it easy to remember.
It is less wary than other grebes and often comes closer to the shore. On land it stands almost upright, dives well, and is usually quiet, though it can sometimes give a rough, shrill call.
It lives on small lakes, backwaters, and other waters with plenty of plant growth, and winters along sea coasts. It feeds on aquatic invertebrates and, in winter, also on small fish; in the north of its range it is migratory.
Quick Facts
The Horned Grebe has a striking seasonal look. In spring and summer it shows a dark head with warm rufous tufts by the eyes, while in autumn and winter the plumage turns much paler and more subdued. On the water it keeps its head slightly tilted back, which makes it easy to remember.
It is less wary than other grebes and often comes closer to the shore. On land it stands almost upright, dives well, and is usually quiet, though it can sometimes give a rough, shrill call.
It lives on small lakes, backwaters, and other waters with plenty of plant growth, and winters along sea coasts. It feeds on aquatic invertebrates and, in winter, also on small fish; in the north of its range it is migratory.
