Grebes in Dorset
5 species matching this filter.
Dorset's diverse wetland habitats, from the sheltered waters of Poole Harbour to the Fleet lagoon and numerous freshwater lakes, provide excellent conditions for grebes throughout the year. Five species of grebe have been recorded in the county, including the familiar Great Crested Grebe and Little Grebe as breeding residents, alongside scarcer winter visitors such as the Black-necked Grebe and Red-necked Grebe. The county's coastal bays and inland reservoirs are particularly rewarding spots for observing these elegant diving birds.
Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollisLC
An uncommon winter visitor favouring sheltered coastal waters, regularly seen in Poole Harbour and Studland Bay from October to March.
Oct–Mar
Great Crested Grebe
Podiceps cristatusLC
Resident year-round on Dorset's larger lakes and reservoirs, with elegant courtship displays visible in spring at sites like Radipole Lake.
Year-round
Horned Grebe
Podiceps auritusVU
A rare winter visitor from November to March, favouring sheltered bays and harbours. Poole Harbour is a key site in Dorset.
Nov–Mar
Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollisLC
An uncommon resident found on ponds, lakes, and sheltered waterways year-round. Often heard before seen, giving a distinctive trilling call.
Year-round
Red-necked Grebe
Podiceps grisegenaLC
A rare winter visitor to Dorset's sheltered harbours and coastal waters, most likely seen between November and January in Poole Harbour or Portland.
Nov–Jan