Clark's Grebe, known scientifically as Aechmophorus clarkii, is a striking waterbird found in the freshwater lakes and marshes of western North America. Notable for its elaborate courtship dance, it has distinctive black-and-white plumage and bright red eyes. It feeds primarily on fish, expertly diving and swimming underwater.

Aechmophorus clarkii, commonly known as the Clark's Grebe, is native to North America. This species is primarily found in the western United States and extends into parts of Canada and Mexico. Its range includes states such as California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington in the U.S., as well as regions in British Columbia in Canada and Baja California in Mexico.

Clark's Grebe typically inhabits freshwater lakes, marshes, and ponds. The species prefers large bodies of water with abundant aquatic vegetation, which provides both food resources and nesting sites. The environmental conditions of its habitat include temperate climates with seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation.

Clark's Grebe is a waterbird that occupies an ecological niche as a piscivore, primarily feeding on fish. Its adaptations for aquatic life include lobed toes for swimming and a streamlined body for diving. The species also feeds on crustaceans and insects, contributing to its role in aquatic food webs. It nests in colonies on floating vegetation or in dense marshes, making the availability of such environments crucial for its breeding success.