Great Crested Grebe Behavior: Courtship, Feeding, and Nesting

What are the key behaviors of the Great Crested Grebe?

The Great Crested Grebe is known for its elaborate courtship dance, expert diving, and devoted parental care, including carrying chicks on its back. These behaviors are most visible during the breeding season on calm freshwater lakes and reservoirs.

How do Great Crested Grebes perform their courtship dance?

The courtship dance is a series of synchronized displays between a pair, including head shaking, the 'weed ceremony' where they offer water plants to each other, and the 'penguin dance' where they rise breast to breast. These displays strengthen the pair bond and occur in early spring.

What is the weed ceremony?

In the weed ceremony, both birds dive and bring up aquatic vegetation, then rush toward each other and present the weeds. It is a key part of pair bonding and can be observed from a respectful distance with binoculars.

How do Great Crested Grebes feed and dive?

Great Crested Grebes dive underwater to catch fish and aquatic invertebrates, staying submerged for up to 30 seconds. They often surface far from where they dove, so watch patiently and scan the water.

Tips for observing feeding behavior

• Look for a grebe with its head underwater, scanning for prey before diving.
• Note how the bird propels itself with lobed toes, not webbed feet.
• During winter, they may gather in loose groups where food is abundant.

Where and when do Great Crested Grebes nest?

They build floating nests anchored to aquatic plants in shallow water, usually from April to July. Both parents incubate the eggs for about 27–29 days.

How to find a nest respectfully

Use binoculars or a spotting scope from the shore. Avoid approaching, as disturbance can cause abandonment. Look for a low mound of vegetation near reed beds.

Why do Great Crested Grebes carry chicks on their backs?

Chicks ride on the parents' backs for warmth and safety, especially in the first two weeks. The parents feed them small fish and feathers to aid digestion. It is one of the most endearing sights in birdwatching.

Seasonal changes in Great Crested Grebe behavior

Practical tips for observing Great Crested Grebes

1. Visit calm lakes or reservoirs at dawn or dusk for best activity.
2. Bring binoculars (8x42 or similar) and a notebook for field notes.
3. Wear muted colors and move slowly to avoid startling the birds.
4. Be patient: courtship displays can occur in bursts with long quiet intervals.
5. Respect nesting areas and keep dogs on leads.