Podiceps nigricollis
The Black-necked Grebe is a small waterbird with distinctive breeding plumage. It displays a black head and neck in summer, contrasting sharply with its bright chestnut flanks. The eyes are deep red, accentuated by golden ear tufts.
The plumage becomes duller in winter, with a white throat and grayish-black upper parts. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but with striped faces.
Length
28cm to 34cm
Wingspan
56cm to 60cm
Weight
200g to 450g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black White
Secondary Colour
Red Yellow
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Black
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Black-necked Grebes inhabit freshwater lakes, marshes, and coastal lagoons across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. They prefer shallow, productive waters with abundant aquatic vegetation for nesting and foraging.
In North America, they are known as Eared Grebes and are common in western states. They are scarce breeders in the UK but more numerous in winter, particularly along the south coast.
Sea level to 2,500 meters
Temperate, Subtropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Black-necked Grebe. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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