The least grebe, an aquatic bird, is the smallest member of the grebe family. It occurs in the New World from the southwestern United States and Mexico to Argentina, and also on Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas and the Greater Antilles.
Region
Central and South America and the Caribbean
Typical Environment
Found from the southwestern United States through Mexico, Central America, and much of South America to northern Argentina, and on many Caribbean islands. Prefers small, quiet freshwater bodies such as ponds, marshes, oxbows, ditches, and slow streams with dense emergent vegetation. It also occurs in mangrove lagoons and sheltered edges of larger lakes where cover is abundant. Often occupies ephemeral or human-made water bodies and can persist in urban or agricultural landscapes if vegetation remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The least grebe is the smallest grebe in the New World, notable for its bright yellow eyes and compact, dark appearance. It often sinks low in the water when alarmed, leaving only the head and neck visible. Pairs build floating nests anchored to vegetation, and adults frequently carry striped chicks on their backs. It readily uses tiny ponds, cattle tanks, and roadside ditches if cover is available.
Breeding plumage
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; prefers to dive rather than fly
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small loose groups where habitat is favorable. Builds a floating nest hidden among reeds or other emergent plants; both sexes incubate and tend the young. Adults often carry chicks on their backs while foraging. Territorial during breeding, using cover to avoid open-water confrontations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include soft trills, whinnying notes, and repeated, tinkling calls, especially during courtship and territorial encounters. Calls are modest in volume and often delivered from within dense vegetation.
