Atitlán grebe

The Atitlán grebe, also known as the giant grebe, giant pied-billed grebe or poc, is an extinct species of grebe. A relative of the pied-billed grebe, it was endemic at the Lago de Atitlán in Guatemala at an altitude of 1700 m asl. It was described in 1929 by Ludlow Griscom based on a specimen collected in 1926 and had been overlooked in the past. American ecologist Anne LaBastille observed the decline of this species over a period of 25 years. It was declared extinct by 1990.

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Distribution

Region

Guatemalan Highlands

Typical Environment

Historically restricted to Lake Atitlán, a deep volcanic crater lake encircled by steep highlands. It favored extensive reedbeds and emergent vegetation along sheltered shorelines for nesting and cover. Birds foraged in adjacent open water, diving for small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans. Habitat stability depended on intact reed stands and a native fish community.

Altitude Range

1500–1700 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size40–50 cm

Wing Span60–70 cm

Male Weight0.9 kg

Female Weight0.8 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Also called the giant pied-billed grebe or poc, it was confined to Lake Atitlán in Guatemala and declared extinct by about 1990. Its decline was driven by the introduction of largemouth bass that reduced native prey fish, loss of reedbed nesting habitat after earthquakes and lake-level changes, and hybridization with the pied-billed grebe. Locals named it “poc” for its resonant call. It was larger and heavier than the widespread pied-billed grebe.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and secretive

Flight Pattern

effectively flightless; prefers to dive and run across water rather than take sustained flight

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, forming small loose groups outside the breeding season. Builds floating nests anchored in dense reeds, with both parents participating in incubation and chick care. Pairs defended territories within reedbeds and nearby open water.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Known for deep, resonant ‘poc-poc’ notes carrying over the lake, especially at dawn and dusk. Also gives grunts and clucking calls during territorial or courtship displays.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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