Grebes
Grebes belongs to the Podicipediformes order. The Podicipediformes order holds only one family which is named as Podicipedidae. The family in turn holds 22 species in 6 different genera.
Grebes are the freshwater diving birds. Grebes occur in size from small, medium to large. Their size ranges from 23.5 cm to 71 cm. Also their weight ranges from 120 grams to 1.7 kg. Its bills also vary from short to thick according to food they eat. Grebes eat freshwater insects, crustaceans and fishes as well.
Grebes have their feet positioned far away back of the body. The position of their feet allows them to run for a little distance but they often falls. The feet are large in size.
They have lobed toes. Their front three toes are connected by small web. However the rear toe also has a small lobe.
Grebes have waterproof plumage. It is also in large density. Grebe swims low in water exposing only its neck and head. Grebe looks dark brown and white in non-breeding season. They have relatively narrow wings than other seabirds. Two of its South American species could not fly. However some of its species are unwilling to fly. But they are excellent divers and swimmers. In the time of danger, they protect themselves by diving instead of flying.
Grebes are migratory. However the North American and Eurasian species are seen regularly in flight. Grebes create floating nests made up of plant material. Young Grebes can leave the nest within few days and are capable of swimming from birth
Grebes have received much less attention than the any other birds. Now there are only few species of grebes are exist out of 22 species. They are found in all the continents except Antarctica They found in large numbers in South America. Grebes are one of the oldest forms of birds which are an extensive fossil lineage right now. Three of its species Atitlan Grebe, Alaotra Grebe and Colombian Grebe will soon disappear. However, the other species are also in the danger of extinct.
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