Sungrebe

Overview

The sungrebe, or Heliornis fulica, is a small aquatic gruiform found in the tropical and subtropical Americas. It is the only living member of the genus Heliornis and is characterised by its reclusive habits and broad-lobed feet. The species is currently assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Plumage is mostly reddish brown with a striking black crown and nape, white neck stripes, and white throat; females are brighter, displaying rufous cheek patches that turn cinnamon-orange in breeding season, while males are drabber without the bright eye ring.
• Males average 30 cm in length and 110–140 g in mass, while females are slightly smaller at 27 cm but more powerfully built.
• Legs and feet feature bold yellow and black banding with broad lobes; the tail is long, extending well beyond the body in flight.
• Calls include a series of four to seven descending hoots for advertising, yodeling quacks during interactions, and short barks when moving away from threats.

Habitat

Sungrebes inhabit heavily vegetated, freshwater wetland environments, such as quiet forest streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes with thick overhanging vegetation. Their range extends from northeastern Mexico to central Ecuador and southern Brazil, typically staying in lowlands from sea level to around 500 meters. They are residents that do not migrate seasonally, though they may shift within their range to follow flooding or drying habitats.

Diet

These birds hunt for snails, terrestrial and aquatic arthropods, small fish, frogs, and lizards, and also consume plant matter such as seeds and fruit. Foraging occurs mostly on or just above the water surface, though they may make short dives to catch prey or hunt from low perches.

Did you know?

Males possess unique pouches under their wings, made of muscled skin and guarded by curved feathers, in which they carry their young until the chicks can swim independently. This trait has led to them being nicknamed 'Marsupial Birds'.