Podiceps occipitalis
The Silvery Grebe, Podiceps occipitalis, is a strikingly elegant waterbird known for its distinctive head ornamentation. Measuring 28-30 cm (11-12 inches) in length and weighing between 340-420 grams, its most prominent feature is a fan-like array of bright golden or silvery-white plumes fanning out from behind its red eyes on a black cap. It sports a contrasting white throat, reddish-brown flanks, a dark grey back, and a clean white belly. This species is divided into two main subspecies, *P...
Found primarily in freshwater lakes, lagoons, and ponds, often at very high altitudes in the Andes, but also in coastal lagoons and marshy areas at lower elevations.
Mainly aquatic insects and their larvae, small crustaceans, mollusks, and occasionally very small fish, all caught during underwater dives.
Silvery Grebes are diurnal, spending most of their active hours foraging and resting on the water. They are adept pursuit-divers, propelling themselves with powerful feet to catch prey underwater. During the breeding season, they establish territories and can be quite aggressive towards rivals, e...
The Silvery Grebe is widely distributed across South America, primarily inhabiting the Andes Mountains and Patagonia. The southern subspecies, *P. o. occipitalis*, breeds across southern Chile, Argentina, and on the Falkland Islands, extending south to Tierra del Fuego. These populations often pe...
Least Concern
- The Silvery Grebe is named for the distinctive silvery or golden fan-like plumes that adorn the back of its head during breeding season. - Chicks commonly ride on the backs of their parents, nestled among their feathers for warmth, protection from predators, and easier transport across the wate...