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HABITATS
During breeding season, the great crested grebe has a grey-brown back, white underparts, and black and white wings. The back of the long neck is black while the front is white. On the head, the face is white with a chestnut ruff, and the crown is black with a black crest.
The dagger-like bill is pink, the eyes are red, and the legs and feet are black. Males and females are similar.
Out of breeding season, the great crested grebe is duller overall, and the ruff and crest are absent.
Juveniles have grey-brown plumage with black and white streaks on the head and no crest.
Great crested grebes are widespread across the British Isles except the north of Scotland and parts of Ireland. Look out for them in lakes, reservoirs, and rivers, and along the coast in winter.
SPOTTING TIPS
The great crested grebe can be distinguished from the similar-looking red-necked grebe by the crest on its head. It is rarely found on land as it cannot walk very well.
In spring, it engages in an elaborate courtship dance, rising vertically out of the water while shaking its head. Young birds can sometimes be seen riding on their parents’ backs.
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