The Clark's Grebe is identical in size and shape to the Western Grebe, and was once considered to be a lighter morph of that species. Bill colors are slightly different, and the Clark's Grebe has white both above and below the eye. Note that in winter, facial patterns are nearly identical for both species, making identification much more difficult.
Habitat
Sloughs and shallow lakes with emergent vegetation.
Diet
Mostly fish in all seasons. Occasionally eats insects, crustaceans, and salamanders.
Behavior
Forages by diving underwater and pursuing prey, propelled by its feet.
Nesting
June and July
Song
Ascending kreee-EEEEK .
Migration
Summers through much of the western U.S. Winters along West Coast, Mexican coast, and selected locations in the American Southwest.
Similar Species
Western Grebe. See ID Key's for Clark's vs. Western Grebe .
Status
Numbers appear to be stable, and possibly expanding eastward.
Photo Information
June 19th, 2008 - Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, California - Terry Sohl
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access the eBird species page for Clark's Grebe
