All about the Slavonian grebe
A rarity along the Solent coastline, this grebe can sometimes be seen out at sea during the winter months.
Also known as the horned grebe, this species has a striking summer breeding plumage consisting of golden horns, black cheeks, a red neck and sides. On the contrast, and as pictured, their wintering plumage looks completely different – and is the plumage we are more likely to see along the Solent. Consisting of a black cap, white neck, red eyes and black back, they look similar to other species of grebe at this time, such as the black-necked grebe and red-necked grebe.
Have a look out for that bright red eye, short beak and distinctive white cheek – tell-tell signs that you are looking at a Slavonian.
A very small number of Slavonian grebes breed in Scotland, at around 60 pairs, but the majority of wintering birds come from Scandinavia.
