The Great crested grebe (Podiceps cristatus) is an aquatic diving bird noted for its elaborate mating display. It is the largest member of the grebe family found in the Old World, with some larger species residing in the Americas. These birds are excellent swimmers and divers and pursue their fish prey underwater.
Great crested grebes are found across Europe and Asia, parts of southern and eastern Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. These birds are resident in the milder west of their range but migrate from the colder regions. Populations in Africa, Australia, and New Zealand are mainly sedentary. Great crested grebes breed in vegetated areas of freshwater lakes, small pools, slow-flowing rivers, artificial water bodies, swamps, bays, estuaries, and lagoons. Wintering habitats include freshwater lakes, reservoirs, and sheltered coastal inshore waters such as brackish estuaries, and tidal lagoons.
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