Image © Jim Gain
Nomenclature
Scientific Name: Podilymbus podiceps
Name in Spanish (Mexico): Zambullidor Pico Grueso
Name in Mayan (if known): Pook
ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: PBGR
Family: Podicipedidae - Grebes
About this Species
The Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps) is a small, freshwater diving bird found throughout the Americas, including the Yucatan Peninsula. These birds prefer shallow, weedy ponds and marshes with plenty of cover for nesting and foraging.
During the breeding season, male and female grebes form monogamous pairs and work together to build floating nests out of vegetation. The female typically lays a clutch of 3-9 eggs, which both parents take turns incubating for about 20-24 days.
Pied-billed Grebes are skilled divers and swimmers, using their powerful legs and lobed toes to propel themselves underwater in search of fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey. They can remain submerged for up to 30 seconds and can dive to depths of up to 20 feet. Outside of the breeding season, these birds may form loose flocks and migrate to warmer climates.
*Occurrence and Distribution in the Yucatan Peninsula
RESIDENCY STATUS: Yearround Resident
FREQUENCY STATUS: Fairly Common in the...
DISTRIBUTION TRENDS: Highest populations are in the ...
*This information was gathered from eBird (www.ebird.org)