Birdlife Switzerland names the little grebe as Bird of the Year 2024
Published: Thursday, Nov 30th 2023, 06:40
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Birdlife Switzerland has named the little grebe as Bird of the Year 2024. According to the organization, the smallest local water bird and "little ball of feathers of our waters and wetlands" is a symbol of good waters.
The little grebe can be found in Switzerland all year round, as Bridlife reported on Thursday. The bird with the conspicuous trill prefers waters with lots of shore vegetation and a good herb layer under water with a muddy substrate. However, it must not be too deep, but clear so that it can spot its prey. The little grebe feeds mainly on insects and their larvae, in winter it switches to small fish such as bullheads or perch.
The waterfowl spends its breeding season from April to June mainly at lower altitudes on the Central Plateau, according to the press release. This is also when its striking trill is used for courtship, which it also uses to defend its territory. In addition to its vocalizations, the little grebe impresses the other sex with various diving and imposing manoeuvres. The resulting five or so chicks are initially transported on their backs.
However, despite its widespread distribution, the little grebe is not entirely carefree: according to Birdlife, it is on the Swiss early warning list of the Red List of Threatened Species. According to the organization, existing bodies of water must be kept in good condition in order to protect them.
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