Zambullidor Chico
Least Grebe
Tachybaptus dominicus
Song
Least Grebe
Appearance: The Least Grebe is among the smallest grebes, measuring 12-14 inches (30-36 cm). Features a large, rounded head with a darker color and a yellow-orange patch during breeding. Short, pointed bill in pale bluish-gray. Compact with a short neck. Positioned far back for effective swimming.
Habitat: The Least Grebe is typically found in freshwater habitats such as lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and marshes. They prefer areas with abundant aquatic vegetation for cover and nesting.
Behavior: Least Grebes are skilled divers and swimmers, feeding primarily on small fish, insects, and aquatic invertebrates. They are often seen diving underwater to catch their prey. These grebes are generally solitary or found in small groups.
Breeding: Breeding season for Least Grebes can vary depending on the region, but it typically occurs during the wet season when water levels are higher. They construct floating nests made of plant material anchored to vegetation in shallow water. Both parents take part in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.
Conservation Status: The Least Grebe is not considered globally threatened, but local populations may face habitat loss and degradation in Colombia due to wetland drainage, pollution, and human disturbance. Protecting and restoring wetland habitats where the Least Grebe resides is essential for their conservation.
Distribution
Amazon Region: The Amazon region of Colombia, encompassing areas such as Leticia, Puerto Nariño, and Mitu, provides abundant freshwater habitats like rivers, oxbow lakes, and wetlands that are suitable for the Least Grebe.
Orinoco River Basin: The Orinoco River Basin in Colombia, including regions like Puerto Carreño, Inírida, and Arauca, offers diverse aquatic environments where the Least Grebe can thrive, including rivers, lagoons, and marshes.
Eastern Plains (Los Llanos): The vast grasslands and wetlands of the Eastern Plains in Colombia, including areas like Villavicencio and Puerto Gaitán, provide important breeding and foraging grounds for the Least Grebe.
Andean Region: In the Andean region of Colombia, the Least Grebe can be found in wetland areas, reservoirs, and lakes located at different altitudes. Regions like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali may host populations of this species.
Pacific Coast: Along the Pacific coast of Colombia, including regions like Buenaventura and Tumaco, estuaries, mangroves, and coastal lagoons provide habitats for the Least Grebe, especially in brackish water environments.
Northern Coast and Caribbean Region: Wetlands, lagoons, and rivers in the northern coastal regions of Colombia, such as Cartagena and Santa Marta, may also support populations of the Least Grebe.
Taxonomy
The Least Grebe (Tachybaptus dominicus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Podicipediformes
- Family: Podicipedidae
- Genus: Tachybaptus
- Species: Tachybaptus dominicus
Vocalization
Contact Calls: Least Grebes use contact calls to communicate with their mates or chicks while swimming or foraging together. These calls help maintain group cohesion and alert others to their presence.
Alarm Calls: When startled or sensing danger, Least Grebes emit alarm calls to warn others in the group about potential threats. These calls are typically sharp and rapid to signal danger and prompt a response from nearby individuals.
Courtship Calls: During the breeding season, male Least Grebes often engage in elaborate courtship displays accompanied by vocalizations. Courtship calls are used to attract a mate, establish pair bonds, and coordinate mating activities.
Territorial Calls: Least Grebes defend their territorial boundaries by vocalizing to deter intruders or competing individuals. Territorial calls are aggressive in nature and are used to establish dominance and protect nesting sites.
Agonistic Calls: In confrontational situations, such as disputes over resources or territory, Least Grebes may use agonistic calls characterized by harsh, intense vocalizations. These calls help resolve conflicts and establish hierarchy within the group.
Nesting Calls: When tending to their nests or offspring, Least Grebes may produce soft, soothing vocalizations to communicate with their mates or young. These nesting calls help coordinate parental care tasks and maintain family bonding.
