Little Grebe

Tachybaptus ruficollis

(T. r. capensis)

Armenian Name:	Փոքր սուզակ

See Plate 1 for Little Grebe and other similar species

Resident Status:	Year-round resident
Abundance:	Common
Length:	25-29 cm, Wing Span:40-45 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 3.
Description:	Very small water bird with fluffy white rear body and short bill.
Adult (Breeding):	Red-brown foreneck and cheeks; greenish-yellow gape patch.
Adult (Non-breeding):	Paler, light brown cheeks and neck.
Behavior:	Prefers areas with emergent vegetation; more likely to be found near cover or shore than other grebes. Rarely flies, even when disturbed; called "flightless grebe" in Armenia. Gives rapid, high-pitched horse-like neighing call during breeding season.
Habitat:	Lakes, marshes, fish ponds.
Food:	Aquatic invertebrates, small fish, vegetation.
Nest:	Floating platform in vegetation or on open water.
Eggs:	38 mm, 4-6, white