Grebe (Pied-billed)

This is a small, diving bird that feeds on aquatic insects, small fish, and crustaceans. This Grebe is very shy and dives underwater or hides in aquatic vegetation when scared. These are solitary birds. Their nests are designed to float on the waters surface, but are usually attached to some vegetation.

Pied-Billed Grebes are monogamous over the breeding season. The young can often be seen riding on their parents' back. A small brown stocky body with short thick whitish bill with a black ring (breeding season). Its feet are set far back on its body. Also will have a whitish throat and darker crown and back. Been known to grow 12 to 15 inches in full length.

Photographed in the wild, Naples, FL