Great Crested Grebe

The Great Crested Grebe is a long-necked diving bird with a slender pointed bill. Breeding adults carry dark double crests and a spreading chestnut-and-black facial ruff used in elaborate displays; winter plumage is cleaner black and white without the full ornaments. Juveniles have boldly striped heads. The species sits low on the water and dives smoothly rather than taking flight when approached (Wikipedia, general species account).

Great Crested Grebes inhabit large lakes and reservoirs, shifting to sheltered coastal waters in winter. They dive for fish and aquatic invertebrates, steering underwater with their lobed feet. Pairs perform mirrored head-shaking and weed-carrying courtship displays before building a floating nest anchored to vegetation. Chicks leave the nest quickly and commonly ride between the folded wings on an adult's back (Wikipedia, general species account).