Until 1985, Clark’s Grebe was considered the same species as the Western Grebe. Mostly found to the south of us in the western States south to Mexico. Sometimes occurs in the southern Interior of B.C. Migratory for the most part, the odd bird that shows up in coastal B.C., usually in the ocean, are strays.
Similar species:
There is a good reason why Clark’s and Western Grebes were considered a species as both appear very similar. While breeding birds are most apparent, unfortunately we’re likely to see them in the fall and winter when in nonbreeding plumage. White lores, a lack of grey under the eye and a strong-yellow bill on a Clark’s Grebe are main identification features. See photos below.
Sources:
Ehrlich, Dobkin and Wheye, (1988)
Kaufman, K (1990)
Sibley, D. 2000
Noteworthy Data
Date | Location | Source(s) | Comments |
| 23-September-2009 | Island 22 , Chilliwack | G. Gadsden, 2009a | Seen until November 4, 2009. |
| 22-November-1996 | Vedder Canal, Chilliwack | D. Tyson, 1996 | Photographed near the Keith Wilson Road bridge. |
Photos
