Little Grebe
Tachybaptus ruficollis
Length 25-29cm

Smallest British grebe. Common in most of Britain and Ireland except N Scotland. In breeding plumage, has chestnut on cheeks and neck with lime green spot at base of bill; plumage otherwise brownish except for white powderpuff of feathers at rear end. In winter, has mainly dark brown upperparts and buffish underparts. Nests on ponds, canals and slow-flowing rivers. Presence often indicated by whinnying call. In winter, also on reservoirs around sheltered coasts.