Today, the Great Crested Grebe is on the UK’s Green List – the lowest level of conservation concern. These birds came close to extinction in the late 1800s when the overwhelming demand for feathered headwear was driving species to the brink. The Plumage Prohibition, the RSPB’s first campaigning success, was passed in 1921.
Great Crested Grebes breed on freshwater pools. Check out your local lakes, ponds, reedbeds, rivers and canals.
Breeding pairs will toss their heavily decorated heads in unison to claim their territory and strengthen their bond. Then, they seal the deal with a romantic proposal. Diving below the water’s surface, both birds retrieve some weed and rising out of the water together, pressed chest-to-chest, they offer up their green gifts in a series of headshakes.
Head outside and discover fascinating birds each month. Read on for top ID tips, what to listen for, and where to see them.
