Great Crested Grebe

Podiceps cristatus

(P. c. cristatus)

Armenian Name:	Մեծ սուզակ

See Plate 1 for Great Crested Grebe and other similar species

Resident Status:	Year-round resident
Abundance:	Common
Length:	46-51 cm, Wing Span:85-90 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 6.
Description:	Long thin neck.
Adult (Breeding):	Black crest and black and red-brown neck ruffs.
Adult (Non-breeding):	Paler; gray back, white below. Long pink bill.
Similar Species:	Differs from Red-necked Grebe by paler plumage overall, pinkish bill, and neck ruffs during breeding.
Behavior:	Often occurs far from cover and shore, especially in winter.
Habitat:	Lakes, reservoirs, marshes, fish ponds.
Food:	Small fish, aquatic invertebrates, vegetation.
Eggs:	56 mm, 1-7, chalky white.