Click on the Western Grebe
to view a larger image. |
Western Grebe
(Aechmophorus occidentalis)
This ocean-going bird is built for diving and swimming under water. On the beach it appears awkward, even injured as it tries to walk. Once in the water, it is able to dive and swim with the aid of its long neck and feet which are placed at the back of its body. The placement of its feet allows it to move quickly under water, catching small fish with it’s long sharp bill. The Western Grebe has distinctive black and white markings and red eyes.
|
DISTINGUISHING MARKS
25” (63 cm). A large, slate and white grebe with a long, swanlike neck. Bill long, greenish yellow with a dark ridge.
DISTRIBUTION
Western North America. Winters to Mexico.
HABITAT
Rushy lakes, sloughs; in winter, bays, ocean
|
