Grebes in Northamptonshire
5 species matching this filter.
Northamptonshire's network of reservoirs, gravel pits and tranquil lakes provides excellent habitat for grebes, with five species recorded in the county. The Great Crested Grebe and Little Grebe are familiar breeding residents, while scarcer visitors such as the Black-necked Grebe, Red-necked Grebe and Horned Grebe add excitement for birdwatchers, particularly during migration periods. Key sites including Pitsford Reservoir, Daventry Reservoir and the Nene Valley gravel pits offer some of the best opportunities to observe these elegant waterbirds.
Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollisLC
A rare passage visitor to reservoirs and gravel pits, most likely seen between July and September during post-breeding dispersal.
Jul–Sep
Great Crested Grebe
Podiceps cristatusLC
Common on larger lakes and reservoirs year-round, performing its elaborate courtship display from late winter.
Year-round
Horned Grebe
Podiceps auritusVU
A rare passage visitor with occasional February records at the county's larger reservoirs and gravel pits.
Feb
Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollisLC
A common resident on ponds, canals and sheltered gravel pits, often betrayed by its distinctive whinnying trill.
Year-round
Red-necked Grebe
Podiceps grisegenaLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally turning up on larger reservoirs in late winter. A notable county record when found.
Feb