Australasian Grebe

Overview

The Australasian grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae) is a small waterbird found across greater Australia, New Zealand, and nearby Pacific islands. Measuring 25–27 cm in length, it is among the smallest members of the grebe family.

Identification

• Breeding plumage: Dark brown above with a glossy-black head and neck, featuring a striking chestnut facial stripe and a prominent pale yellow face spot below the yellow eye.
• Non-breeding plumage: Duller appearance with no chestnut stripe, a whiter face spot, and a grey-white throat and front.
• Size: One of the smallest grebes, alongside the least grebe and little grebe.

Habitat

Commonly found on fresh water lakes and rivers throughout greater Australia, New Zealand, and surrounding Pacific islands. Its range includes specific subspecies populations in Java, New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and the Solomon Islands.

Did you know?

The parents are highly protective and defend their young by confronting other water birds, such as ducks and herons, using wild wing flapping or splashing water at intruders.