Convervation status: Amber

Latin name

Podiceps nigricollis

Family

Grebes (Podicipedidae)

Overview

This small grebe has beautiful golden tufts of feathers on its face, contrasting with its black head and neck. Its steep forehead makes its head look 'peaked'. A rare breeding bird, it is also uncommon in winter.

Where to see them

Likes reservoirs, gravel pits and estuaries in winter - the Fal Estuary, Cornwall and Poole Harbour, Dorset are good places to look.

When to see them

All year round, but best looked for in winter.

What they eat

Insects, crustaceans and small fish.

Estimated numbers

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

In the UK

ngland and Scotland (breeding); E, S and W coasts in winter

In Europe

Most of Europe except N Scandinavia.

Worldwide

Europe, Asia, Africa and N America

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Sound: Patrik Aberg, Xeno-canto

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Black-necked grebe - breeding plumage

Black-necked grebe - winter plumage

Similar birds

Little grebe

Slavonian grebe