Convervation status: Amber Latin namePodiceps grisegena FamilyGrebes (Podicipedidae) OverviewLike all grebes it is an expert swimmer and diver. In winter plumage it is similar to a great crested grebe but has has a thicker neck, and a stout dark bill with a yellow base. It has a brown body, a black crown with whitish cheeks and, in summer, a red neck and breast. Breeding has been suspected in the UK but the potential sites are kept secret and birds given special protection to protect them. Fewer than 20 individuals spend the summer in the UK each year, with numbers increasing slightly in the winter when birds move here from colder Europe. Where to see themThe best place is from seawatching points around the east coast of the UK in winter. Summering birds are mainly found in the south and east of England. When to see themWinter What they eatFish, crustaceans, aquatic insects Estimated numbers| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
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| - | 1 pair | 55 birds | - |
* 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
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 |