Western Grebe
Learn to identify the Western Grebe by ear. Master the "creet-creet krree-ee-ee" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.
What the Western Grebe sounds like
Mated pairs perform loud, rapid chattering duets from the water during courtship and territorial displays.
How to tell it apart
Where you'll hear it
Breeds from British Columbia and the Prairie Provinces south through the western United States and into northern Mexico; winters along the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to Baja California and locally inland where water remains ice-free.
Breeds on large freshwater lakes, marshes, and reservoirs with extensive stands of emergent vegetation; winters primarily on protected salt-water bays, estuaries, and larger reservoirs.
Arrives on breeding lakes April–May; peak nesting June–July. Southbound migration August–October; most individuals reach coastal wintering areas by November. Spring migration begins February–April.
How to recognize it by sight
The Western Grebe is a striking, long-necked waterbird famous for its elegant courtship "rushing" display in which pairs sprint side-by-side across the water’s surface. At nearly two feet long, it is the largest North American grebe, showing a bold black-and-white pattern, dagger-like yellow bill, and piercing red eyes.
Similar species
Clark’s Grebe
Clark’s shows more white in the face, with the eye set in white rather than black.
Red-necked Grebe
Smaller, with thick neck and rusty throat in breeding plumage.