Winters along seacoasts, bays, and estuaries. During migration
, found on lakes, ponds,
and rivers. In Idaho, prefers large lakes with clear water. Podiceps
grisegena
(Red-necked
Grebe)
neck with a white cheek
and black cap on its head. Long bill,
yellow at base. Body dark above and white below. Sexes similar. In winter, grayish
with a white crescent-shaped strip on its neck. In flight, white speculum and leading wing edge.
Similar Species- Horned grebes are smaller, with slender black bills and golden ear tufts. Western and Clark's grebes are larger with white necks.
Song:
Generally silent. A sharp bark
may be heard during breeding season.
Distribution:
Breeds in Alaska and western and
south-central Canada, south to Washington, Montana, northeastern South Dakota,
and Minnesota; rarely breeds elsewhere in northern United States. Winters coastally
from Alaska to southern California, and also from Nova Scotia to central Florida
(casually along Gulf Coast). In Idaho, breeds uncommonly on Panhandle and in
south-central and southeastern Idaho.
Habitat:
Winters along seacoasts,
bays, and estuaries. During migration, found on lakes, ponds,
and rivers. In Idaho, prefers large lakes with clear water.
Diet:
Feeds on small fishes where
available, but also eats aquatic and land insects, crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic
worms, tadpoles, salamander eggs, some vegetable matter, and feathers.
Ecology:
Nests on floating or
half- submerged vegetation. Usually nests solitarily, but will sometimes form
loose colonies. Breeding territory size varies in accordance with food supply
and other ecological factors. Dives underwater and forages on or near bottom
for food. Flees by diving rather than flying.
Reproduction:
Peak egg-laying activity
occurs in June in many areas. Male and female in turn incubate usually 3-5 eggs for 22-27
days. Both parents tend young, which probably become independent at 8-10 wk.
Conservation:
| Element Code: | ABNCA03020 |
| Status: | Protected nongame species |
| Global Rank: | G5 |
| State Rank: | S3 |
| National Rank: | N5B,N5N |
Important
State References:
Taylor, D.M. and C.H. Trost.
1987. The status of rare birds in Idaho. Murrelet 68:69-93.