The Alaotra grebe, also known as Delacour's little grebe or rusty grebe, is a recently extinct grebe that was endemic to Lake Alaotra and its surrounding lakes in Madagascar. Experts say that the grebe became extinct after carnivorous fish were introduced into its native habitat. The last sighting of the Alaotra grebe was in 1983 or 1985 and it was officially declared extinct in 2010.
Region
Madagascar (Lake Alaotra Basin)
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to the freshwater Lake Alaotra and adjacent marshes with extensive reedbeds and papyrus. It favored shallow, vegetated margins and channels with patches of open water for diving. Floating and emergent vegetation provided cover and nesting substrates. It was not known from coastal or marine environments and did not disperse widely beyond the basin.
Altitude Range
700–850 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Alaotra grebe was confined to Madagascar’s Lake Alaotra and nearby wetlands and was officially declared extinct in 2010 after last confirmed records in the 1980s. Its decline was driven by predation and competition from introduced carnivorous fish, entanglement in gill-nets, habitat degradation, and possible hybridization with the Little Grebe. Its small range and reluctance to fly made it especially vulnerable to rapid environmental change.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; reluctant flier, usually skimming low over water if flushed
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in pairs within dense reedbeds. Nests were floating platforms anchored to emergent vegetation, with both parents sharing incubation and chick care. It defended small territories in the breeding season and kept close to cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations consisted of sharp, whinnying trills and squeaky notes, often delivered from concealed positions in reeds. Calls carried over calm water at dawn and dusk.
