Little Grebe

The Little Grebe is a compact waterbird measuring 23–29cm, with a pointed bill and a rounded, powder-puff rear. Breeding adults are dark above with rich rufous cheeks and neck and a bright yellow gape. Winter birds become paler brown-grey, while juveniles have striped faces. Its rapid, whinnying trill, often delivered as a duet, readily reveals birds hidden among reeds (Wikipedia, general species account).

Little Grebes favour well-vegetated freshwater ponds and lakes, moving onto more open or coastal water outside the breeding season. Powerful swimmers and divers, they pursue small fish and aquatic invertebrates underwater. The floating nest is anchored at the water's edge; adults cover the four to seven eggs with weeds when leaving. Chicks swim soon after hatching and often ride on an adult's back (Wikipedia, general species account).