Documentation of Red-necked Grebe
2023-032

Observer Information

Reporter:  Kathryn Kay  2820 Hanover St,   Denver, CO  80238
E-mail:  kathykay228@gmail.com
Other Observers:  Adrian Lakin

Species, Date, Time and Location Information

Species:  Red-necked Grebe
First Date/Time:  7/13/2023 9:15:00 AM
Last Date/Time:  7/28/2023 11:15:00 AM
Duration (total time in view):  30 minutes
County:  Jackson
Specific Location:  Pole Mountain Reservoir
Number:  5
Age:  Multiple Birds - Mixed
Sex:  Unknown
Plumage:  Multiple Birds - Mixed

Habitat

On lake

Viewing Conditions

Optics:  Swarovski 8x32, Swarovski HD-ATS-80 Scope, Vortex Razor HD scope (27-60 x 85), Vortex Razor HD Binocular 10x42, Canon 90D w/ 100-400mm lens
Distance:  300 Yards
Light:  Bright, on calm lake during first sighting and on choppy lake during second sighting

Description of the Bird

On July 13th we were told by Valentina Roumi that there were 2 RNGRs on the lake.  We relocated one swimming and one on what appeared to be a mound/nest.  When we returned on July 28th, we viewed one adult swimming with and feeding three juveniles.  Sex was indeterminable.  The adult was in breeding plumage (red neck with silvery chin/cheek patch) and the juveniles were the same medium shade of brown throughout.  Dagger shaped bill was distinct but it was difficult to determine the color of the bills.

Ebird URL:  https://ebird.org/checklist/S145851259 

Similar Species Discussion

There were plenty of Eared Grebes on the lake, but these were larger with solid red neck, silver cheek patch, and did not have ear turfts.  The birds were smaller and not black and white like Western Grebes or Clark's Grebes.

Previous Experience

Red necked grebes are not extremely common in Colorado like Eared Grebes and/or Western Grebes.  I see them annually, but chase them when they are reported.  It is interesting to see them raise a brood when their normal breeding range is Northern Montana, Canada, and Minnesota.

Notes

Notes made AFTER observation

Materials Available

Photographer: Adrian Lakin



13372_pole_mtn_lake_rngr1.jpg


Date Documentation Submitted

7/30/2023 11:50:00 AM
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Location Map

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