ExploreBirds

Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

The Little Grebe is a small, cute bird that loves to swim and dive in the water. It has a fluffy body and a lovely, soft call that sounds like a little whistle.

Habitat: Wetlands

Appearance

The Little Grebe is a tiny, plump diving bird with dark brown upperparts and a distinctive rufous (reddish-brown) neck and cheeks in summer. It has a bright yellow patch at the base of its short, pointed bill and striking yellow eyes, making it visually distinct from other small water birds.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPodicipediformesFamilyPodicipedidaeGenusTachybaptus
Little Grebe
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Little Grebe

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Grebe babies can swim and dive just hours after hatching!

It sometimes eats its own feathers to protect its stomach!

Its floating nest might actually move around the pond!

They sleep tucked in their feathers, sometimes floating in open water!

Special abilities

Ability

Instant Dive Escape

Little Grebe can vanish underwater in a flash that helps them escape predators quickly.

Ability

Floating Nest Builder

Little Grebe builds a clever nest that floats on water, anchored to plants for safety.

Ability

Chick Taxi Service

Little Grebe has a special ability to carry its babies on its back that keeps them safe and warm.

Measurements & details

Length
23-29 cm
Wingspan
40-45 cm
Weight
0.12-0.17 kg
Lifespan
5-10 years
Top Speed
45 km/h
Clutch Size
4-7
Incubation
19-27 days

Diet & Feeding

This little bird mostly dives to catch tasty aquatic insects and small fish for its meals.

Primary Foods

  • Aquatic insects
  • Insect larvae
  • Small fish
  • Tadpoles
  • Crustaceans

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Dabchick

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and do not try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Little Grebe?

23-29 cm

What is Little Grebe's wingspan?

40-45 cm

How much does Little Grebe weigh?

0.12-0.17 kg

How long does Little Grebe live?

5-10 years

How fast can Little Grebe move?

45 km/h

What does Little Grebe eat?

This little bird mostly dives to catch tasty aquatic insects and small fish for its meals.

Where is Little Grebe usually found?

Wetlands

How does Little Grebe hunt?

Pursuit

Snap Map

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