Watercolor portrait of Western Grebe (Aechmophorus occidentalis)

Western Grebe

Aechmophorus occidentalis
Breeds from British Columbia and the Pra… Breeds on large freshwater lakes, marshe… common Advertising duet

Learn to identify the Western Grebe by ear. Master the "creet-creet krree-ee-ee" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“creet-creet krree-ee-ee”

What the Western Grebe sounds like

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.

“creet-creet krree-ee-ee”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Mated pairs perform loud, rapid chattering duets from the water during courtship and territorial displays. Often written as “creet-creet krree-ee-ee”.
Don't confuse with:The Clark’s Grebe — clark’s shows more white in the face, with the eye set in white rather than black.

Where you'll hear it

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.

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.

Western Grebe song FAQ

What does a Western Grebe sound like?
Mated pairs perform loud, rapid chattering duets from the water during courtship and territorial displays. Listen for the "creet-creet krree-ee-ee" phrase.
How do I tell a Western Grebe from a Clark’s Grebe by sound?
Clark’s Grebe: Clark’s shows more white in the face, with the eye set in white rather than black.; Bill brighter orange-yellow.; Soft, up-swept profile compared with Western’s straighter neck..
When is the best time to hear a Western Grebe?
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.