Least Grebe

Identification

The least grebe is the smallest member of the grebe family, measuring 21–27 cm in length and weighing 112–180 g depending on subspecies and region. Small and plump with a fairly short, sharp-pointed beak and bright yellow eyes, it typically appears quite dark overall. The breeding adult is brownish grey above with a darker blackish crown and throat, a brownish chest, and pale underparts, showing a distinctive white wing patch in flight. Non-breeding birds are paler with a whitish throat, while immatures are paler and greyer than adults. Unlike all other members of its genus, the least grebe lacks any chestnut coloring on its neck.

Like all grebes, its legs are set far back on its body, making it an awkward walker but an excellent swimmer and diver. Despite size variation across its range—smaller populations in Panama and larger ones in the West Indies—it remains smaller and lighter than any other grebe species.