Horned Grebe

Also known as: Slavonian Grebe, devil-diver, hell-diver, pink-eyed diver, water witch.

30-38 cm (12-15") Common. Summers on marshes and lakes, winters on coastal waters, Great Lakes.

Pigeon-sized duck-like bird. Short sharply pointed bill; red eyes.

In flight, white wing patch.

Summer: reddish-brown neck, breast and sides; black head; golden ear tufts; black bill.

Winter: dark crown and upperparts; white cheek patch is level with eye; white throat and breast; pale bill.

Song: usually silent; on breeding ground a series of croaks, shrieks.

Watch

Credit: Larry Bond

Horned Grebe distribution map

Horned Grebe winter distribution map

Podiceps auritus