Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps Cristatus) Information

Great-Crested-Grebe-Facts-habitat-Nesting-Breeding

Great Crested Grebe is the largest grebe; widespread resident and winter visitor to lakes, reservoirs and coastlines. In summer, black cap and prominent russet and blackhead plumes (erected in display) preclude confusion. In winter, black cap extends above eye forming prominent white eyebrow; foreneck white. Juveniles heavily streaked on head.  Dives expertly; flies laboriously after lengthy pattering over water’s surface.

Status: Great Crested Grebe widespread and quite numerous except in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. In winter congregates at larger waters and sheltered coastlines. Some immigration from the Continent.

Similar Species: Large size, Jong neck and sharply pointed bill separate from all grebes except winter Red-necked, which has no eyebrow and dusky, not white, foreneck.

Great Crested Grebe Bird Facts

Type duck-like
Size 45-51 cm (19 in.)
Habitat freshwater, sea
Behaviour swims,  dives from surface, takes off and lands on water
Flocking summer solitary; small flocks winter
Flight laboured; direct
Voice harsh barking ra-ra and variety croaking sounds

Bird Identification

Great-crested-grebe-identification

Ad.summer
Crown black, crest
Upperparts brown
Rump brown
Tail brown, short and rounded
Throat white
Breast white
Belly white
bill red, straight and sharply pointed
Legs green, short
Ad.winter dark cap, white above eye, white neck
Juvenile as Ad.winter, streaked head

Breeding

Nest floating mound in water
Eggs 4, white
Incubation 25-29 days
Young active, downy
Fledging 25-29 days
Broods 1 or 2; May-July
Food fish
Population 3000 pairs, 7000+ winter