Birds of Patagonia: Silvery Grebe

(Podiceps occipitalis)

This sublime diver and swimmer is found in almost all Argentina, especially in Andean lagoons and wetlands in Patagonia and the pampas. Also on the sea coasts and in the Falklands Islands. Its distribution range follows the Andes on Chile, Bolivia, Perú, Ecuador and Colombia. The southern populations of the occipitalis sub-species migrate north or to the sea coasts while the juninesis sub-species is a permanent resident of the high Andean lagoons up to 4,500 m.

It feeds on insects and their larvae, fish, small crustaceous and plants. During the winter they gather in big flocks, sometimes mixed with other species like white-tufted, ducks, and coots. When facing a threat, the prefer diving than flying. They tend to fly at night in search of new water bodies.

On the breeding season, they display a golden ear tuft. During the courtship, the pair performs elaborated synchronized dances that include dives, face to face encounters, body elevations, head movements and whistling. The pair members also exchange plants before building a nest that consists of an floating platform made of cattails. The chicks leave the nest immediately and sometimes are transported on the back of their parents.

Take a birding tour with us to watch and photograph this amazing bird and many others!