A relatively slender-necked, large grebe. Body is dark gray, connecting to black crown; black reaches below red eye on the face. White underneath from throat to belly. Long, slender bill is dusky greenish-yellow. Out of water, lobed toes on feet make walking awkward. In basic plumage, black on the face is less distinct, dusky. Sexes are similar. Clark's Grebe has yellow bill, white above eye, and paler body. Note that juvenile Westerns show very pale faces and are paler above; may be confused for a Clark's Grebe from a distance.

Length: 64 (cm) Wingspan: 61 (cm)

Voice:

Ratcheting, creaking, echoing calls, somewhat two-noted.

Habitat:

Open ocean, bays, estuaries, large rivers, deep lakes, reservoirs.

Behavior:

Breeds colonially; nest is a floating platform of vegetation among reeds. In spring courtship display, pairs run together upright along water's surface.

Feeding:

Dives and swims to catch fish and other aquatic organisms.