The silvery grebe is a species of grebe in the family Podicipedidae. It is found in the western and southern part of South America where it inhabits lakes and other types of open wetlands. There are two subspecies, which by some recent authorities are considered separate species.
Region
Andean Altiplano and southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Peru and Bolivia south through Chile and Argentina to Patagonia, with populations on the Andean Altiplano and in lowland lakes and lagoons. It favors open wetlands, shallow lakes, and marsh-fringed lagoons with ample emergent vegetation for nesting. The species also uses brackish and saline lakes where prey is abundant. Outside breeding, birds may move locally to larger water bodies with stable levels and open water. It is largely sedentary but can shift altitudinally in response to freezing or drought.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Two subspecies are usually recognized, with the Andean juninensis sometimes elevated to full species by some authorities. Silvery grebes are expert divers that pursue aquatic invertebrates underwater using their lobed feet. They nest on floating platforms hidden among emergent vegetation, and adults frequently carry downy chicks on their backs. They tolerate both fresh and brackish lakes, including high-altitude Andean waters.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, fast flights over water
Social Behavior
Often forms small groups and may gather in loose flocks outside the breeding season. Pairs build floating nests anchored to reeds and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Chicks are often carried on a parent's back for warmth and protection in the first weeks.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include sharp, chattering trills and whinnying or rattling calls, most frequent at dawn and dusk. Duetting between pair members is common near the nest and during territorial displays.
Plumage
Smooth grey upperparts with a silvery sheen on the flanks and clean white underparts; blackish cap and hindneck contrasting with paler face. In breeding plumage, shows slightly richer, sometimes rufous-tinged sides of neck and flanks; nonbreeding birds are plainer grey and white. Feathers appear sleek and water-shedding, typical of grebes.
Diet
Feeds mainly on aquatic invertebrates such as insect larvae (especially midges), small crustaceans, and occasionally small fish or tadpoles. It captures prey by diving and pursuing underwater, using powerful lobed feet for propulsion. Foraging bouts are interspersed with short surface rests, and prey is swallowed at the surface.
Preferred Environment
Typically forages in open water near patches of emergent vegetation where prey is concentrated. Uses both fresh and brackish lakes, including wind-sheltered bays and lagoon margins. In highland areas, it exploits altiplano lakes where aquatic insect emergence is seasonal.
