Podilymbus podiceps                                              Photo Chris Burney ©

Pied-billed grebes are often seen floating or diving on Florida’s lakes and ponds. This small pigeon-sized grebe has a short, blunt bill, which is encircled by a black band. These grebes are rarely seen flying, they usually dive and swim underwater when threatened.  They feed on small fish, crustaceans and aquatic insects. 

Some pied-billed grebes are year-round residents in Florida, and have an extended breeding season. Others migrate to northern states to breed and return to Florida for the winter.

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