Western Grebe

Aechmophorus occidentalis

Status

Special Concern

Description

The Western Grebe is a large waterbird with lobed feet set well back on a streamline body which makes then awkward on land but good swimmers. They have a white throat. breast belly and black and grey plumage on their crown, neck back and wings. They have a long yellow-green pointed bill and bright eyes.

Habitat

Western Grebes nest on masher and lakes with sand and emergent vegetation, stable water levels and extensive open water. They also need a large population of prey fish.

Threats

Recreation involving powerboats and personal watercraft
Habitat loss or degradation to emergent vegetative communities
Fluctuations in water level during nesting
Invasive fish species
Declines in prey availability

You Can Help!

Limit use of powerboats or watercraft in known nesting locations
Clean boats well after each use to limit the spread of invasive species
Don't move or transfer fish