Western Europe Birds & Birding (#7/52): From the Highland Willow Scrub of Scotland to the Aegean Islands within the Sea of Crete, Western Europe is residence to over 800 resident, migratory and vagrant birds. From songbirds to gamebirds and from waterfowl to raptors, you will discover birds just about in each nook and cranny of this stunning space. *All photos showcased on this weblog collection had been taken and edited by me.
A Reflections of the Pure World Weblog Publish Sequence by Jim Acquire
Bodily Traits:
The Nice Crested Grebe is an interesting species of water hen that’s well-known for its spectacular courtship shows and attribute head crests. It’s the largest member of the grebe household discovered within the Previous World, with some bigger species residing within the Americas.
Bodily, this medium-sized hen has a mean size of 40-45cm, and a wingspan of about 70cm. Its physique is especially darkish greyish brown with a white stomach. The pinnacle is adorned with a putting black and white crest. This hen is additional recognized by its lengthy, pointed beak and white cheeks and chin.
Eating regimen:
In relation to weight-reduction plan, the Nice Crested Grebe feeds primarily on small aquatic animals, comparable to crustaceans, mollusks, aquatic bugs, and small fish. They forage primarily by diving underwater and scouring for meals. Through the summer season, they could additionally feed on terrestrial bugs.
Abundance and Distribution:
By way of abundance and distribution, the Nice Crested Grebe may be present in wetlands, lakes, rivers, and different our bodies of water throughout a lot of Europe and Asia, in addition to in elements of Africa and North America. It prefers habitats with loads of aquatic vegetation, comparable to reed beds, so they’re usually discovered close to the perimeters of water. They normally keep away from giant open our bodies of water, comparable to giant lakes and estuaries. The Nice Crested Grebe is a comparatively social hen and may be seen in small flocks of as much as 10 birds.
IUCN Crimson Checklist Standing:
As for its conservation standing, the Nice Crested Grebe is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Crimson Checklist, and is taken into account to be in good well being globally. Nonetheless, their populations have decreased barely because of the destruction of wetlands, introduction of non-native species, and unlawful searching. In some elements of Europe, it’s nonetheless legally hunted for meals.
GREAT CRESTED GREBE WAS LIFER # 782