Pied-billed Grebe

About This Species

A small, stocky waterbird with a distinctive thick bill, the Pied-billed Grebe is common in freshwater marshes and ponds across North America.

Fun Facts

• Diving escape: When threatened, they slowly sink straight down into the water like a submarine rather than diving.
• Seasonal bill: The black band on the bill (giving them their name) is only present during breeding season.
• Rarely fly: Can go entire seasons without flying, preferring to swim and dive to escape danger.
• Eat feathers: Feed their own feathers to their young, possibly to help protect the stomach from sharp fish bones.