Little grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Habitat
The Little brebe lives in Europe, from Eastern Europe to the Urals. This bird species is also found in Northwest Africa.
During the summer season in the Netherlands, the Little brebe prefers ponds, lakes, ditches, and other inland waters with rich vegetation along the banks. In winter, this bird species prefers larger, open waters and ice-free harbors along the coast.
Appearance
Diet
The Little grebe feeds on animal matter. This means that this bird species is carnivorous.
Breeding
The Little grebe has a monogamous mating system, with pairs remaining together for life. The breeding season depends on the growth of emerging vegetation and the water level, but generally speaking, the Little grebe breeds from April to August.
During the mating season, the Little grebe makes a shrill, tremulous sound. While searching for a suitable mate, the Little grebe also marks out a territory. As long as a male and female are courting, other members of the species are allowed to enter the pond. But once the courtship ends and a pair has formed, the pair will exclude other members of the species from the territory.
The nesting site must have sufficient sheltered areas to build the nest. In addition, the area must have rich vegetation, both above and below the water. Furthermore, there must be sufficient food available. The nest consists of a floating platform made of plant material.
The Little grebe usually breeds twice per breeding season. The clutch consists of 2 to 7 eggs. The eggs are laid at intervals of 1 to 2 days. When a parent leaves the nest, it will cover the eggs with weeds to try to prevent predation. The eggs hatch after 20 to 25 days. After 44 to 48 days, the young are already able to fly.
How may you help the Little grebe?
During the breeding season, the Little grebe can use a floating artificial nest. The artificial nest looks like a buoy filled with a pile of branches. The artificial nest is used in areas with steep banks or where there is a lack of bank vegetation. To prevent predation, the artificial nest should be placed on a body of water with a steep bank.