Clark’s Grebe

Identification

Clark's grebe is a sleek waterbird closely resembling the western grebe, with which it shares colonies and range. The two species were not recognized as distinct until the 1980s. Clark's grebe is distinguished by its overall paler plumage on the back and a larger white facial patch that extends above the eyes, rather than just below them as in the western grebe. The most reliable field mark is its bright yellow bill, compared to the western grebe's greenish-yellow bill. The bird also has a slightly upturned bill, whereas the western grebe's is straight. Clark's grebe measures 22–29 inches in length with a wingspan of 24 inches and weighs 25.3–44.4 ounces. It possesses a long, slender neck characteristic of grebes. Males display a slight crest on the head that females lack. Juveniles are paler than young western grebes, though similarly marked.

Range & Habitat

Clark's grebe nests on large inland lakes throughout western North America, migrating to the Pacific coast during winter months. The species maintains year-round resident populations in California, Nevada, Arizona (particularly the Lower Colorado River Valley), and central Mexico. It shares its breeding and wintering grounds with the western grebe, and the two species often nest together in the same colonies. Intermediates between the two species are known to occur, reflecting their close relationship.

Behaviour & Diet

Clark's grebe feeds by diving for aquatic prey including insects, polychaete worms, crustaceans, and salamanders. Like the western grebe, it performs elaborate courtship displays as part of its breeding behavior. These spectacular synchronized displays are among the most recognizable behaviors of North American grebes and are shared with its close relative.

Best Time & Places to See It

Winter is an excellent season for observing Clark's grebe along the Pacific coast, where migratory populations congregate. Year-round viewing opportunities exist in California, Nevada, Arizona's Lower Colorado River Valley, and central Mexico. Large inland lakes in western North America attract breeding birds during the nesting season. Look for this species in mixed-species grebe colonies, where it occurs alongside western grebes.

Photography Tips

Photograph Clark's grebe in good lighting to capture the diagnostic bright yellow bill and pale plumage that distinguish it from the western grebe. The bird's elegant long neck and streamlined profile are best photographed from the water level or low vantage points. During breeding season, position yourself to capture the spectacular courtship displays, which involve synchronized movements between pairs. Winter coastal locations may offer calmer water conditions ideal for sharp images of plumage details.