National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Presidio of San FranciscoCrissy Field Center across the marsh
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Presidio of San Francisco
Western Grebe
(Aechmophorus occidentalis)
 
Western Grebe
Will Elder, NPS
A Western Grebe swims at Crissy Marsh.
 

Natural History: This bird feeds on fish by pursuing them and diving into the water, but it also eats invertebrates. It is commonly found resting on water. This species nests colonies from May to August. It breeds in large expanses of water with nest platforms often floating in emergent vegetation. It can often be found in mixed flocks with Clark's Grebe.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in bays and the ocean.

Frequency: This animal is abundantly found during the fall, winter, and spring months.

Identifying Characteristics: This species is distinguished by its long, white, swanlike neck. It displays a dark/black plumage on its upper side and is white below.

Presidio Birds main page

Crissy Field today  

Did You Know?
Crissy Field was the only Army airfield in the western United States continuously active from 1919 to 1936.

Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 EST