Grebes are water-inhabiting and diving birds belonging to the order Podicipediformes, family Podicipedidae and are mainly found in freshwaters. These small to medium-large birds have lobed toes hence making them wonderful swimmers and divers. Much as Grebes can run for short distance, they are likely to fall from time to time because their feet are far back on their bodies.
Grebes can be mistaken for Geese or Ducks but are less wary than ducks and can respond to threats by diving into the water than flying. Their bills range from short and thick to long and pointed, depending on the species and diet. They have large feet with broad lobes on their toes as well as small webs connecting the front three toes. The hind toes of Grebes also have small lobes.
There are currently over 20 sub-species of Grebes Worldwide and three of these are found in Uganda. They include the Eared Grebes (scientifically known as Podiceps nigricollis), Little Grebes (known as Tachybaptus ruficollis) and the Great Crested Grebes (Grebe Podiceps cristatus Infuscatus).
There are scattered populations of Great Crested Grebes in East and Southern Africa. In Uganda, you will find them around the Kasenda Crater Lakes in western Uganda. Interestingly, these Lakes are one of the few known birding spots for these species of Grebes and you will find then within at least one of these Lakes. The Great Crested Grebes are so far the largest member in their Grebe family with 46-51 centimeters length, 59-73 centimeters wingspan and between 0.9 and 1.5 kilograms in weight. It is an amazing diver and swimmer to the point of chasing its prey (especially fish) underwater.
The Little Grebes are some of the smallest members of Grebe family, extending for about 23-29 centimeters long and live within open bodies of water across their range. Besides Uganda, the Little Grebes are also found in freshwater Lakes across Europe, New Guinea, Asia and majority of African countries.
The Eared Grebes are fairly small with peaked heads, thin and straight bills with golden feathers at the “ear”. They also have sooty bodies and cinnamon-red sides.
Besides Grebes, Uganda is home of other beautiful bird species that include Ostriches, different sub-species of pelicans, Kingfishers, Egrets, Ducks, pigeons and doves, herons, Bustards, Lapwings, Darters, Storks, shoebill storks, Terns, Hammerkop, Ibises and spoonbills, Geese, Flamingos, Eagles, Osprey, secretary birds, falcons, Guinea-fowls, Jacanas, Plovers, Gulls and many others.
