Life List 092
Visually documented
Western Grebe
Aechmophorus occidentalis
- First photographed
- June 27, 2026
- First location
- Utah, United States
- Conservation status
- Least Concern
An evolving study
Western Grebe portfolio
This collection grows as I return to photograph new behavior, habitat, seasons, and stages of life.
Natural history
Species at a glance
Aechmophorus occidentalis
Overview
The Western Grebe is a long-necked waterbird famous for elaborate synchronized courtship, including rushing side by side across the water. It nests colonially on floating platforms in marsh vegetation.
Identification
Black above and white below with a long white neck, red eye set within black facial plumage, and a long yellow-green bill. The flanks appear relatively dark compared with Clark's Grebe.
Range
Breeds on large lakes and marshes of western North America and winters mainly along the Pacific Coast, with smaller numbers on inland and Gulf waters.
Habitat
Large freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and marshes while breeding; sheltered bays, estuaries, and coastal waters in winter.
Diet
Primarily fish captured by underwater pursuit, along with crustaceans, aquatic insects, and other small aquatic animals.
Photography by Brittany Templin
Bring the story of the Western Grebe into your project or space.
Continue exploring
Related encounters
075
Pied-billed Grebe
Podilymbus podiceps