Species Profile
Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollis
Eared Grebe with colorful summer plumage
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernAlso known as: Eared Grebe
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Appearance
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.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Black
- Secondary
- Red
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Black
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
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.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
Diet
Black-necked Grebes primarily feed on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans (particularly brine shrimp).
They hunt by diving underwater, using their feet for propulsion and sharp beak to catch prey. During migration, they may also consume their own feathers to aid in digestion.
Behaviour
Black-necked Grebes are highly social, often forming large flocks outside the breeding season. They are excellent swimmers and divers, frequently submerging for up to 30 seconds while foraging.
During courtship, pairs engage in elaborate synchronized swimming displays, mirroring each other's movements.
Calls & Sounds
Black-necked Grebes are generally quiet outside the breeding season. During courtship and nesting, they produce a variety of calls, including a high-pitched 'whee-oo' and a soft 'poo-eee-chk'. Alarm calls are described as a sharp, repeated 'pik-pik-pik'.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding typically occurs from May to August, with pairs forming on arrival at breeding sites. Black-necked Grebes are monogamous during the breeding season and often return to the same nesting areas annually.
Nests are floating platforms of aquatic vegetation anchored to emergent plants. Females usually lay 3-4 pale blue eggs, which become stained brown over time.
Both parents incubate the eggs for about 21 days. Chicks are precocial, able to swim shortly after hatching, and are often seen riding on their parents' backs for protection.
Conservation
While globally listed as Least Concern, Black-necked Grebes face localized threats from habitat loss and pollution.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting wetland habitats and monitoring population trends, particularly in areas where numbers have declined.
Elevation
Sea level to 2,500 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators include large fish, birds of prey such as harriers and gulls, and mammals like foxes and minks, particularly targeting eggs and young.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Black-necked Grebes on inland lakes and coastal bays
- Observe their distinctive diving behavior, often disappearing suddenly
- In breeding season, watch for their elaborate courtship displays
- Use a spotting scope for better views, as they often stay far from shore
Did You Know?
- Black-necked Grebes can adjust their buoyancy to sink vertically in water, with only their head visible.
- They migrate at night, using stars for navigation.
- These grebes eat their own feathers, which may help protect their digestive system from sharp fish bones.
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