Pied-billed Grebe

Description:

This Pied-billed Grebe was foraging before sun set while moving towards a more secluded, marshy area of the pond to roost for the night. This is an endangered species in the state of Delaware.

Habitat:

Large pond/reservoir with plenty of aquatic vegetation and multiple habitat features (muddy swamp, deep water, beaver pond, and clear stream.)

Notes:

This little guy along with a few Ring-necked Ducks, Black Ducks and a large flock of Canada Geese are all currently residing in this pond. Early in the morning they all make their way from the shallow swamp area of the pond towards deeper water. As the day progresses they make their way back towards the swampy area to roost. I've noticed that the smaller species like this Grebe tend to stay out until the sun begins to set, while larger birds like the geese go towards the marsh by mid-afternoon or fly off to another location.