Silvery Grebe
Podiceps occipitalis
The Silvery Grebe (Podiceps occipitalis) is a uncommon greb found in 10 countries, weighing about 321 g. The silvery grebe is a species of grebe in the family Podicipedidae.
About the Silvery Grebe
The silvery grebe is a species of grebe in the family Podicipedidae. It is found in the western and southern part of South America where it inhabits lakes and other types of open wetlands. There are two subspecies, which by some recent authorities are considered separate species.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
The silvery grebe is about 28 cm (11 in) in length. There are two different subspecies which differ in the colouring on their head and facial plumes. In the southern form, the ear plumes are yellowish and the side of the head and throat are grey. In the northern form, the ear plumes are grey and the side of the head and throat are white. Both have a crown that is black and the neck, chest and belly are white while the back is dark grey and the sides and flanks blackish. The beak and feet are black and the eye red.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Colombia.
When to see it
The Silvery Grebe can be seen all year round, with peak activity in October. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Silvery Grebe?
- The silvery grebe is about 28 cm (11 in) in length. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Silvery Grebe?
- The Silvery Grebe is a large sized bird weighing about 321 g.
- Where can you see a Silvery Grebe?
- The Silvery Grebe occurs in 10 countries, including Chile, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia.
- What birds look similar to a Silvery Grebe?
- The Silvery Grebe is most easily confused with the Hooded Grebe, the Junin Grebe and the Great Grebe.
Learn the Silvery Grebe for real
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