Bird Guide

Hoary-headed Grebe

Poliocephalus poliocephalus

Least ConcernInvertebratesWetlandPlatform nestMedium · 240 g

About the Hoary-headed Grebe

The hoary-headed grebe is a member of the grebe family. It breeds in southern parts of Australia; it winters throughout the island of Tasmania. The bird takes its name from the silvery-white streaking on its black head. It is common in Australia, with a population of about 500,000. Its habitat is similar to that of the Australasian grebe.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The hoary-headed grebe is a fairly small dark grey and white grebe. It has a brown eye and a black patch under the chin, and a narrow black streak down the back of the neck. During the breeding season the adult's plumage has white streaks over its entire head, giving them the common name of hoary-headed grebe. Juveniles have a white chin and throat and a striped face. Males have two plumage phases: after breeding they lose the buff breast and the white lines on the head, but can usually be identified then by the broad black bar down the nape.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Hoary-headed Grebe lives

Regular range

When to see the Hoary-headed Grebe

Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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