Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps Cristatus) Information
Great Crested Grebe is the largest grebe; widespread resident and winter visitor to lakes, reservoirs and coastlines. In summer, black cap and prominent russet and blackhead plumes (erected in display) preclude confusion. In winter, black cap extends above eye forming prominent white eyebrow; foreneck white. Juveniles heavily streaked on head. Dives expertly; flies laboriously after lengthy pattering over water’s surface.
Status: Great Crested Grebe widespread and quite numerous except in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. In winter congregates at larger waters and sheltered coastlines. Some immigration from the Continent.
Similar Species: Large size, Jong neck and sharply pointed bill separate from all grebes except winter Red-necked, which has no eyebrow and dusky, not white, foreneck.
Great Crested Grebe Bird Facts
Type | duck-like |
Size | 45-51 cm (19 in.) |
Habitat | freshwater, sea |
Behaviour | swims, dives from surface, takes off and lands on water |
Flocking | summer solitary; small flocks winter |
Flight | laboured; direct |
Voice | harsh barking ra-ra and variety croaking sounds |
Bird Identification
Ad.summer | |
Crown | black, crest |
Upperparts | brown |
Rump | brown |
Tail | brown, short and rounded |
Throat | white |
Breast | white |
Belly | white |
bill | red, straight and sharply pointed |
Legs | green, short |
Ad.winter | dark cap, white above eye, white neck |
Juvenile | as Ad.winter, streaked head |
Breeding
Nest | floating mound in water |
Eggs | 4, white |
Incubation | 25-29 days |
Young | active, downy |
Fledging | 25-29 days |
Broods | 1 or 2; May-July |
Food | fish |
Population | 3000 pairs, 7000+ winter |