Podiceps major
The Great Grebe (Podiceps major) is the largest extant grebe in the Americas, a striking and elegant waterbird highly adapted to an aquatic lifestyle. Measuring between 60-77 cm (24-30 in) in length with a wingspan of approximately 80-90 cm, and weighing 1.1-1.6 kg (2.4-3.5 lb), its size alone makes it distinctive. In breeding plumage, it boasts a rich rufous or chestnut neck and flanks, sharply contrasted by a black crown and nape that extends below the eye, and a pale throat and cheeks. Its...
Primarily found on large freshwater lakes, slow-moving rivers, and estuaries, but also inhabits coastal lagoons and sheltered marine waters. Occurs from sea level up to moderate elevations, occasionally exceeding 1000m.
Their diet consists predominantly of fish (up to 90%), supplemented by crustaceans, aquatic insects, and tadpoles. Foraging is done by underwater pursuit after diving.
Great Grebes are largely diurnal, spending most of their time on the water's surface or diving for food. Their foraging strategy involves plunge-diving and agile underwater pursuit of fish, often staying submerged for up to a minute. During the breeding season, they are strongly territorial, defe...
The Great Grebe has a widespread distribution across temperate and subtropical South America. Its breeding range extends from central Peru and Bolivia, through Paraguay, southern Brazil (Rio Grande do Sul), Uruguay, and much of Argentina and Chile, south to Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islan...
Least Concern
- The Great Grebe is the largest grebe species found in the Americas, making it a distinctive sight on South American waters. - Like other grebes, they regularly ingest their own feathers, forming a protective mat in their stomach that helps prevent injury from sharp fish bones. - Courtship ritua...