Least grebe

The least grebe is a diminutive water bird, recognized as the smallest member of the grebe family. This species is distributed across the Americas, ranging from the southwestern United States and Mexico down to Argentina. It is also found in Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas, and the Greater Antilles. Measuring approximately 21–27 cm in length and weighing between 112–180 grams, this bird is notable for its dark plumage, striking yellow eyes, and sharp-pointed beak. During the breeding season, adults display a brownish-grey upper body, a darker crown and throat, and a conspicuous white wing patch visible during flight.

There are five recognized subspecies of the least grebe, each exhibiting slight variations in size and coloration. These birds are particularly fond of wetlands and can commonly be found in ponds, lakes, marshes, and mangrove swamps, especially in environments with abundant vegetation. Their diet consists of small fish, crustaceans, frogs, and aquatic insects, which they adeptly catch by diving underwater. Least grebes breed throughout the year, building compact floating nests in open water and laying three to six eggs, which they incubate for about 21 days.

One distinctive feature of the least grebe is its call, which remarkably resembles the whinnying of a horse. Although the species is classified as "least concern" in terms of conservation status, it does face threats from predators such as large fish, turtles, and bird-eating raptors. Despite these dangers, the least grebe is an accomplished swimmer and diver, prized for its small size and unique characteristics within the grebe family.