Little Grebe, Tachybaptus ruficollis (Pallas, 1764)
Family: Podicipedidae,
Length: 25 to 29cm Wingspan: 40 to 45cm Weight: 100 to m120g Lifespan: 10 to 15 years.
Seen in Alicante: All year
Widespread across Europe, except in northern Europe.
The Little Grebe is common across Europe and the smallest European member of its family.
Breeds in small colonies in heavily vegetated areas of freshwater lakes, broad rivers, canals and flooded pits. Takes to larger expanses of water in the cooler countries of Europe, towards wintertime, because of the threat of freezing water. Will also fly to the sheltered parts of the coastlines in western Europe, particularly in winter time.
Nesting: Close to the water’s edge, a floating mound of wet vegetation is constructed, which it attaches to a stem or over hanging branch. 4 to 6 eggs are laid. The eggs will be covered when the adult bird leaves the nest, with leaves and various vegetation at hand, this is due to mainly avoid detection. When the eggs hatch, the young birds will leave the nest and will soon be able to swim. The young chicks are often carried on the back of an adult bird.
Breeds between April to June. 1 brood a year.
Feeding: The Little Grebe is an excellent swimmer and will continuously dive under water for various vegetation, small fish, aquatic invertebrate that prey underwater, will eat a wide range of insects and spiders. Covers large areas of water while feeding and always alert for another dive.
Flight: Has small wings, rarely flies and when it does, it is usually low and close to the water’s surface.