Species Profile
Horned Grebe
Podiceps auritus
Horned Grebe
Quick Facts
Conservation
VUVulnerableLifespan
10–15 years
Length
31–38 cm
Weight
300–570 g
Wingspan
55–64 cm
Migration
Long-distance Migrant
Also known as: Slavonian Grebe
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Appearance
The Horned Grebe is a small waterbird with distinctive breeding plumage and a short, dagger-like bill. In summer, it displays a black head with golden 'horns', a chestnut neck, and a black-and-white body. The eyes are bright red, contrasting sharply with the dark head.
Females are similar to males, although they are smaller and less colorful in the breeding season.
In winter, the plumage becomes more subdued, with a black cap, white cheeks, and grayish body. Juveniles resemble winter 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
Horned Grebes breed on small freshwater ponds and lakes in northern regions of North America and Eurasia. They prefer shallow waters with abundant vegetation for nesting.
During winter, they migrate to coastal waters and large inland lakes. In North America, they can be found along both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, as well as on the Great Lakes.
Despite being a rare species in the UK, Slavonian Grebes can be seen at all times of the year. A small breeding population of less than thirty pairs nests on lochs in the northeast of Scotland each summer.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
Diet
Horned Grebes primarily feed on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans. They hunt by diving underwater, using their feet for propulsion and their sharp bill to catch prey.
During the breeding season, they may focus on freshwater invertebrates like beetles, dragonflies, and caddisflies and also consume plant material to supplement their diet.
Behaviour
Horned Grebes are excellent swimmers and divers, often seen diving for food with quick, sudden movements. They are generally solitary or found in pairs during breeding season but may form small flocks during migration and winter.
These birds perform elaborate courtship displays, including synchronized swimming and diving.
Calls & Sounds
Horned Grebes have a variety of vocalizations, particularly during breeding season. Their most distinctive call is a high-pitched, trilling 'pee-yeep' or 'pee-eep', often given in a series. During courtship, pairs may engage in duets, producing synchronized, rapid 'prrrt-prrrt' calls.
Nesting & Breeding
Horned Grebes form monogamous pairs each breeding season, typically from May to August. They engage in elaborate courtship displays, including synchronized swimming and offering of water plants to potential mates.
Nests are floating platforms of aquatic vegetation anchored to emergent plants. Females lay 2-7 pale blue eggs, which become stained brown over time.
Both parents incubate the eggs for about 23-25 days. Chicks can swim immediately after hatching and are often seen riding on their parents' backs for protection and warmth.
Conservation
The Horned Grebe is classified as Vulnerable due to population declines across its range. Threats include habitat loss, particularly the drainage of wetlands, oil spills, and other forms of water pollution. Climate change also poses a significant threat to their breeding habitats.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Horned Grebes on calm lakes and coastal waters
- Observe their distinctive diving behavior, often submerging for 30-40 seconds
- Listen for their high-pitched, trilling calls during breeding season
- In North America, watch for them during spring and fall migrations on inland waters
Did You Know?
- Horned Grebes can adjust their buoyancy to sink vertically in water, with only their head above the surface.
- They ingest their own feathers to line their stomachs and protect against sharp fish bones.
- Chicks can dive underwater to escape danger within hours of hatching.
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