Pied-billed Grebe
(Breeding plumage)
Where to Look
- Lagoons and wetlands on larger islands
- Mangroves along shoreline of larger islands
Similar Galapagos Species
Blue-winged Teal
(Spatula discors)
Identification
The only grebe recorded in the Galapagos, distinguished from other Galapagos waterfowl by stout bill and overall non-descript brown plumage.
Description
In breeding plumage, this grebe has a pale bill with a defined vertical black stripe across its center, overall dark silverish-brown plumage with a black throat patch and a light belly (visible only in flight or when grebe is out of the water). In non-breeding plumage, the black bill stripe dissapears and the bill turns horn colored. The black throat patch also dissapears and the overall plumage becomes duller. Males and females are similar, although males have slightly larger black throat patches during the breeding season and more thickly set bills throughout the year.
Galapagos Distribution
Usually recorded from mangrove lagoons or inland pools on larger islands such as Santa Cruz, Isabella or San Cristobal, but may turn up at any suitable wetland throughout the archipelago.
Global Distribution
This s the most widespread american grebe, with a migrating population occuring as far north as northern Canada and resident populations found throughout the rest of North and Central America as well as the Carribean. In South America, it is present in most regions outside the Amazon River Basin.
Status in the Galapagos
Uncommon migrant never present in large numbers but can be seen at any time of the year. Three subspecies are described, but it is uncertain which have occurred in the Galapagos.