Poliocephalus poliocephalus
The Hoary-headed Grebe, Poliocephalus poliocephalus, is a small, endearing aquatic bird endemic to Australia and Tasmania, celebrated for its distinctive 'hoary' or frosty-looking head in breeding plumage. Measuring approximately 23-28 cm in length and weighing 190-260 grams, it is the smallest of Australia's grebes. During the breeding season, adults boast a dark grey-brown body with conspicuous fine white streaks covering the head and upper neck, giving it its namesake appearance, complemen...
Found primarily in freshwater wetlands, including permanent and temporary lakes, dams, swamps, and slow-moving rivers, preferring shallow, open waters with emergent vegetation. Typically found at low to moderate elevations.
Feeds predominantly on aquatic invertebrates such as insect larvae, small crustaceans, and mollusks, supplemented occasionally by small fish. Forages primarily by diving and pursuing prey underwater.
Hoary-headed Grebes are highly aquatic and generally diurnal, spending most of their time on the water, rarely coming ashore. They are expert divers, propelling themselves with their powerful lobed feet to pursue and catch prey underwater, often remaining submerged for 10-20 seconds. During the b...
The Hoary-headed Grebe is widespread across Australia, including Tasmania, occupying a vast and diverse range of freshwater wetland habitats. Its breeding range encompasses most of the temperate and subtropical zones of the Australian mainland and Tasmania, wherever suitable permanent or temporar...
Least Concern
- The 'hoary' in its name refers to the frosty, finely streaked white feathers on its head during breeding plumage. - It is the smallest of the three grebe species found in Australia. - Unlike most waterbirds, grebes have their legs set far back on their bodies, making them powerful underwater pr...