The Second Ladybird Book of British Birds #16 – The Little Grebe

The Little Grebe is a water bird and is often called the Dabchick. It likes still water or slow flowing rivers, and can very often be seen on lakes in town parks.

It’s not called a Dabchick in Orkney, it’s called a Little Footy Arse. That’s a name I much prefer.

Here’s one I photographed in Italy:

Little Grebes live on small fish, water insects and water weeds. They catch the fish by diving, staying down for about a quarter-of-a-minute, and sometimes swimming quite a long way underwater.

2 Responses to "The Second Ladybird Book of British Birds #16 – The Little Grebe"

michael onken, carbondale,illinols usa says:

16 November, 2017 at 7:30 pm

I have so enjoyed the Ladybird postings of late that I have located one for myself as they remind me of my first bird book or childhood. I have been a frequent visitor to Orkney over the years but never Westray. I hope to put that omission to rest on my next visit perhaps in the Spring.

Reply
1. the HALL of EINAR says:
  
  16 November, 2017 at 10:32 pm
  
  Thanks Michael. I’ve had such fun with The Second Ladybird Book of British Birds and their nests that I’ve just bought the First and the Third books. Expect more from me! I suspect you may enjoy Westray greatly – it *is* the Queen o’ the Isles!
  
  Reply