Great Crested Grebe- in Dutch it is called Grote Fuut
Latin name
Podiceps cristatus
Family
Grebes (Podicipedidae)
Overview
A delightfully elegant waterbird with ornate head plumes which led to its being hunted for its feathers, almost leading to its extermination from the UK. They dive to feed and also to escape, preferring this to flying. On land they are clumsy because their feet are placed so far back on their bodies. They have an elaborate courtship display in which they rise out of the water and shake their heads. Very young grebes often ride on their parents’ backs.
Where to see them
Lowland lakes, gravel pits, reservoirs and rivers. Also found along coasts in winter.
When to see them
All year round
What they eat
Mainly fish
Estimated numbers
Europe UK breeding* UK wintering* UK passage*
– 9,400 adults 19,140 birds
(ack:http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/)
Bennythomas's Weblog 