western grebe
Quick Summary
The western grebe (Aechmophorus occidentalis) is a large grebe native to western North America. Grebes, as a family (Podicipedidae), are diving birds known for their elaborate courtship displays and silky plumage.12
Western grebes are found on large bodies of open water and primarily feed on fish. They are known for a unique courtship ceremony called the "rushing display" and, along with Clark's grebe, engage in courtship feeding where the male feeds the female. While young grebes are typically striped, the gray young of the western grebe have less visible stripes.2
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