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Black-necked Grebe

The Black-necked Grebe boasts stunning black and gold plumage and is famous for its enchanting courtship dances. Found in lakes and ponds, this social bird often gathers in flocks, playing a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by controlling insect populations.

5 years
Lifespan
263.6 - 450.2 g
Weight
Length: 28 - 33 cm
Size
Brown, Grey, Yellow, Red, Black, White
Color
Low
Aggression
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Unknown
Population Trend
Distribution Range of the Black-necked Grebe
Podiceps nigricollis, commonly known as the Black-necked Grebe or Eared Grebe, has a wide geographical distribution. It is found across parts of North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Specifically, it inhabits the western United States, southern Canada, Mexico, parts of Central America, large parts of Europe, and Central Asia. The species is also known to migrate to southern Africa and the Middle East during the winter months.
Black-necked Grebe's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Black-necked Grebe typically inhabits freshwater lakes, ponds, and marshes with abundant vegetation. During the breeding season, it prefers shallow bodies of water with emergent vegetation. These environments provide adequate nesting sites and food. In the winter, they migrate to larger lakes and coastal lagoons, often with more saline waters.
Ecological Niche
Podiceps nigricollis is well adapted to aquatic environments, where it feeds primarily on small aquatic invertebrates, particularly crustaceans, insects, and their larvae. Its niche involves foraging in both the open water and among vegetation, utilizing its excellent diving ability to capture prey. This species is highly social, often forming large flocks outside the breeding season.