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Clark's Grebe Identification

Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Large, slender grebe with a long, thin, straight bill. Black crown does not reach eye, and the bill is bright yellow-orange, especially in summer.

© Scott Somershoe | Macaulay LibraryMontana, May 11, 2017
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Large, slender grebe with sharply defined border between black upperparts and white neck and cheek. Black cap can extend down toward eyes, especially in winter, but does not surround the eye. Bill is bright yellow.

© Brian Sullivan | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 27, 2011
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Dives underwater for fish and other marine invertebrates.

© Timothy Barksdale | Macaulay LibraryMontana, April 01, 2001
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Black line on back of neck is narrow. Tufts of feathers on crown can make the head seem much wider than the neck.

© Nancy Christensen | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 12, 2017
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Elegant large grebe with a snakelike neck, puffy head, and a long, straight bill. Black cap does not cover the eye.

© Nancy Christensen | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 07, 2017
Clark's Grebe Adults
Adults

Pairs perform elaborate displays during courtship, including a synchronized running dance. This video has no audio.

© Galatee Films | Macaulay LibraryOregon, May 23, 1999
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Pairs bond using several displays, including synchronized "running" on the water.

© Kathleen Kent | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 02, 2016
Clark's Grebe Adult
Adult

Breeds on freshwater lakes; winters mainly on seacoasts.

© Myles McNally | Macaulay LibraryTexas, April 29, 2017
Clark's Grebe Adults
Adults

Primarily consumes small fish, which they pinch between the bill several times before swallowing it hole.

© Larry Arbanas | Macaulay LibraryMay 01, 2005
Clark's Grebe Adults and juveniles
Adults and juveniles

Chicks hitch rides on their parent's backs after hatching until they are too big to fit.

© Larry Arbanas | Macaulay LibraryMay 01, 2005
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Adult Description

  • Medium-sized waterbird.
  • Black back and cap.
  • White face.
  • White neck and underside.
  • Long neck.
  • Long, thin bill.

Immature Description

Similar to adult.
Relative Size

Relative Sizecrow sizedcrow-sized
Measurements
  • Both Sexes
    • Length: 21.6-29.5 in (55-75 cm)
    • Weight: 25.3-59.4 oz (718-1685 g)
    • Wingspan: 31.9-32.3 in (81-82 cm)

Species in This Family

Grebes(Order: Podicipediformes, Family:Podicipedidae)

Least GrebeLeast Grebe
Pied-billed GrebePied-billed Grebe
Horned GrebeHorned Grebe
Red-necked GrebeRed-necked Grebe
Eared GrebeEared Grebe
Western GrebeWestern Grebe
Clark's GrebeClark's Grebe

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