Births among Great Crested Grebes
Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)
The great crested grebe is a fascinating aquatic bird, recognizable by its elegant plumage and spectacular courtship display. I will present some of my observations. Unfortunately, due to my move, I cannot share with you this very special dance or the offerings that the parents exchange before breeding.
What struck me right away were its red eyes. With an average size of 46 to 51 cm, this partial migrant mainly frequents lakes and ponds bordered by floating vegetation, such as water lilies, where it finds shelter and food. It can stay in the same place all year round in France, because the temperature remains mild in winter, but it migrates when the bodies of water freeze.
It is important to specify that this bird has had protected status for many years, so it is obligatory to respect its tranquility.
The nest
Her nest, a floating raft of plants, is firmly anchored to the vegetation to prevent drifting. The female lays one clutch per year, sometimes two, of 3 to 5 eggs on average around May-June (here she was a little “late” because it was the beginning of July).
After hatching
After hatching, the little grebes find warmth and protection on their mother’s back, while the male works to provide them with fish and small invertebrates. To help them digest the scales, he may pluck a few small feathers, which will protect their stomachs.
In 2023, four cubs were born. The male rarely stopped diving to feed these little zebra heads.
The first leap and independence
A decisive step towards independence. They quickly learn to dive and fish on their own.
They then gradually leave the family cocoon to become the next pond dancers.
