A small waterbird from the grebe family, characterized by its compact body and distinctive plumage variations during breeding and non-breeding seasons.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Freshwater environments including ponds, lakes, slow-moving rivers, marshes, and wetlands across Europe, Asia, and Africa
Ecological Role
Key aquatic predator controlling small fish and invertebrate populations; indicator species for wetland ecosystem health
Morphology
- SKIN COAT Dense waterproof plumage, varying from dark brown in winter to brighter rufous and black during breeding season
- LIMBS WINGS Short, positioned far back on body; webbed feet for exceptional swimming and diving capabilities
- HEAD SENSORY Small rounded head, short thick neck, sharp pointed beak for capturing aquatic prey
- BODY STRUCTURE Compact, rounded body with length 23-29 cm, weight 130-210 g, adapted for aquatic locomotion
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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