Pied-billed Grebe vs Great Crested Grebe

In short

The Pied-billed Grebe and Great Crested Grebe are both aquatic birds, but they can be distinguished by their size and bill shape. The Pied-billed Grebe has a distinctive short, thick bill with a black vertical bar in breeding season, while the Great Crested Grebe has a longer, more slender bill and striking head plumes.

Identification tips

1. Bill shape: Look for the short, thick bill with a black bar on the Pied-billed Grebe. 2. Size: Note the larger size of the Great Crested Grebe. 3. Head plumes: The Great Crested Grebe has prominent head plumes, absent in the Pied-billed Grebe. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Pied-billed Grebes are more likely in marshes, while Great Crested Grebes prefer open water. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the Pied-billed Grebe's 'caow' call.

Size

The Great Crested Grebe is significantly larger than the Pied-billed Grebe.

Plumage

Pied-billed Grebe has a brown plumage with a distinctive bluish-white bill marked by a black vertical bar during breeding season. The Great Crested Grebe, on the other hand, has a more striking appearance with ornate head plumes and a contrasting black and white face.

Behaviour

Pied-billed Grebes are known for their secretive behavior, often diving to avoid detection. Great Crested Grebes are more conspicuous, especially during their elaborate courtship displays.

Habitat

Both species inhabit freshwater bodies, but the Pied-billed Grebe is more commonly found in marshes and sluggish rivers, while the Great Crested Grebe prefers larger lakes and reservoirs.

Voice

The Pied-billed Grebe has a distinctive 'caow caow caow' call, while the Great Crested Grebe's vocalizations are less frequently noted in field guides.