Podiceps cristatus
The Great Crested Grebe is a striking waterbird with a slender neck and distinctive black double crest. Its back is brown, contrasting with a bright white front. The face features a black-and-white pattern, complemented by a reddish-orange ruff around the neck during breeding season.
Juveniles lack the crest and have striped heads. Both sexes look similar, with breeding plumage being more vibrant. In winter, the crest reduces, and the ruff becomes less prominent.
Length
46cm to 51cm
Wingspan
59cm to 73cm
Weight
750g to 1.45kg
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Brown White
Secondary Colour
Black Rufous
Beak Colour
Pink Grey
Leg Colour
Green
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Great Crested Grebes inhabit large, open freshwater bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, and slow-flowing rivers. They prefer waters with abundant aquatic vegetation for nesting. Their range spans across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.
In the UK, they are widespread residents, found year-round on suitable water bodies. During winter, some birds move to coastal areas. In North America, they are rare visitors to Alaska and western Canada.
Up to 3,000 meters
Temperate, Subtropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Great Crested Grebe. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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