Grebes in Rutland
5 species matching this filter.
Rutland, England's smallest county, punches well above its weight when it comes to waterbirds, thanks largely to the expansive Rutland Water reservoir — one of the most important inland wetland sites in the UK. Five species of grebe have been recorded in the county, ranging from the familiar Great Crested Grebe and Little Grebe to scarcer visitors such as the Black-necked Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, and Horned Grebe. Rutland Water's sheltered bays and rich aquatic habitats make it a prime destination for observing these elegant diving birds throughout the year.
Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollisLC
A scarce non-breeding visitor to Rutland Water's sheltered bays, present mainly in winter and during passage periods.
Aug–Apr
Great Crested Grebe
Podiceps cristatusLC
A common year-round resident and iconic sight on Rutland Water, performing elaborate courtship displays in spring.
Year-round
Horned Grebe
Podiceps auritusVU
An uncommon resident on Rutland Water, most often seen in winter plumage from October to April on open water.
Oct–May
Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollisLC
A common resident found year-round on ponds, lakes and sheltered bays of Rutland Water, often betrayed by its distinctive whinnying call.
Year-round
Red-necked Grebe
Podiceps grisegenaLC
An uncommon but regular presence on Rutland Water, most often seen in winter plumage on the open reservoir outside summer.
Aug–May