Podiceps

Podiceps is a genus of diving birds in the grebe family Podicipedidae, within the order Podicipediformes. The genus includes around a dozen extant species distributed across the temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere and parts of South America. Members are medium-sized grebes with compact bodies, short legs positioned far back on the body, long necks, and pointed bills. They have lobed toes rather than fully webbed feet, which aids propulsion underwater. Plumage is often striking at the breeding season, with distinctive crests or facial ornaments in some species, though the appearance varies by species and season.

Podiceps species are highly aquatic and primarily rely on diving to catch fish and aquatic invertebrates. They are proficient divers, pursuing prey beneath the surface and surfacing with prey in their bills. They are typically found on lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers with ample floating vegetation.

Breeding involves floating nests built from vegetation anchored to vegetation or underwater stems. Both parents incubate the eggs and brood the chicks; after hatch, young grebes may ride on the parents' backs. Courtship displays often include elaborate head-shaking, posturing, and mutual preening.

Notable species include the great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus), the horned grebe (Podiceps auritus), and the black-necked grebe (Podiceps nigricollis). The exact number of species varies with taxonomic treatment. Conservation status ranges from common to locally threatened, reflecting habitat loss, pollution, and disturbance in some regions.