Species Profile
Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Little Grebe
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
10–15 years
Length
23–29 cm
Weight
120–300 g
Wingspan
40–45 cm
Migration
Partial migrant
Also known as: Dabchick
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Appearance
The Little Grebe is a small, compact waterbird with a rounded body and short, pointed bill. In breeding plumage, it displays rich chestnut-brown cheeks and neck, contrasting with a darker crown and upperparts. The sides of the body show a mix of dark brown and buff.
Non-breeding adults have paler plumage, with greyish-brown upperparts and whitish underparts. Juveniles resemble non-breeding adults but often show striped facial patterns. The eyes are bright yellow in all plumages.
Sexes are alike in appearance, although females are usually slightly smaller than males.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Brown
- Secondary
- White
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Green
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
Little Grebes inhabit many freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, and coastal lagoons. They prefer areas with abundant aquatic vegetation for cover and nesting. Their distribution spans across Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.
In the UK, Little Grebes are widespread residents, found in suitable wetland habitats throughout the year. Some northern populations may move south during harsh winters, while others remain on ice-free waters.
Distribution
Where to See This Bird
Explore regional guides for locations where this bird has been recorded.
United Kingdom
England
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Rutland
Cambridgeshire
Bedfordshire
Buckinghamshire
Berkshire
Cheshire
Cornwall
Cumbria
Derbyshire
Devon
Dorset
Durham
East Riding of Yorkshire
Essex
East Sussex
Gloucestershire
Hampshire
Herefordshire
Hertfordshire
Isle of Wight
Kent
Merseyside
Lancashire
Leicestershire
Lincolnshire
London
Manchester
Northumberland
Norfolk
Northamptonshire
Nottinghamshire
North Yorkshire
Oxfordshire
South Yorkshire
Tyne and Wear
West Midlands
Suffolk
Shropshire
Somerset
Surrey
Staffordshire
Stockton-on-Tees
Warwickshire
Wiltshire
West Yorkshire
Worcestershire
West Sussex
Diet
Little Grebes primarily feed on small aquatic invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and molluscs. Crane flies, and mayflies and their larvae are among the most important food sources
They also consume small fish and amphibians. Their diet is supplemented with aquatic plants. These birds hunt by diving, using their feet for propulsion and sharp bill to catch prey underwater.
Behaviour
Little Grebes are excellent swimmers and divers, often disappearing underwater with barely a ripple. They frequently engage in rapid dives to catch prey, staying submerged for up to 30 seconds.
During the breeding season, pairs perform elaborate courtship displays, including synchronised swimming and offering water weeds to each other.
Calls & Sounds
Little Grebe's are noisy birds, and the most distinctive vocalisation is a loud, rapid trilling call, often described as a whinnying laugh or a high-pitched 'weet-weet-weet'. This call is frequently heard during the breeding season.
In flight or when alarmed, they may produce a sharp 'bib' or 'pip' sound.
Nesting & Breeding
Little Grebes typically form monogamous pairs during the breeding season, which varies by region but often occurs from April to August. Courtship involves elaborate displays, including synchronised swimming and platform-building rituals.
Nests are floating platforms of aquatic vegetation, usually anchored to emergent plants. Females lay 4-6 white eggs, which quickly become stained brown from the nest material. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs.
Incubation lasts about 20-25 days. Chicks are precocial, able to swim and dive shortly after hatching. They often ride on their parents' backs for protection and warmth. Fledging occurs after 30-40 days.
Conservation
While the Little Grebe is listed as Least Concern globally, it faces localised threats from habitat loss and degradation.
Wetland conservation efforts, particularly in Europe and Asia, are crucial for maintaining healthy populations. Climate change and water pollution also pose potential long-term risks to this species.
Elevation
Up to 1,000 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators of Little Grebes include large fish, birds of prey (such as herons and gulls), and mammals like mink and otters. Eggs and chicks are particularly vulnerable to corvids and water rats.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Little Grebes in small ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers
- Listen for their distinctive whinnying trill, often heard during the breeding season
- Observe their frequent diving behaviour, which can help distinguish them from ducks
- In the UK, check wetland areas year-round, as many birds are resident
Did You Know?
- Little Grebes can adjust their buoyancy by compressing their feathers and air sacs, allowing them to sink slowly into the water.
- They often eat their own feathers, which may help protect their digestive system from sharp fish bones.
- During courtship, Little Grebes perform a 'penguin dance', standing upright in the water with necks stretched.
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