Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Wetlands. Small waterbird; dark brown above, pale below; when breeding plumage has chestnut face and neck, and creamy spot at base of bill.
LC
Not Endemic
Description
Common resident. Smaller than any duck. Rufous neck and creamy spot at base of bill diagnostic of breeding bird; at other times differs from [Black-necked Grebe] in dull (not white) underparts and dark eyes. The call is a descending, laughing trill. Single birds or loose groups occur on inland waters, seldom large rivers. Dives frequently and skitters across the water when chasing rivals.
Quick Facts
Size
20 cm - M
Names
A: Kleindobbertjie
Z: imvukwane
Ss: Thoboloko E Nnyenyane
G: Zwergtaucher
Bird Family
Small, almost tailless waterbirds. They feed beneath the surface by diving, remaining submerged for 20-50 seconds. They are seldom seen on land, but fly long distances at night to new waters. Breeding and non-breeding plumages differ. Small chicks are striped on the upperparts, the head-stripes remaining until nearly fully grown. Chicks ride on parents' backs.
Distribution
Gallery
Behaviour
Breeding
Habitat
Single birds or loose groups occur on inland waters, seldom large rivers.
