BIRDS FOUND IN BAYOUS AND MARSHES 85 
May. ‘This species follows the habits of all grebes in 
covering the nest with wet vegetation and debris during 
its absence, leaving the sun to continue the work of in- 
cubation. Like other grebes also, it secures its food by 
diving, and then pursuing its prey under the water. 
The Grebe babies are fat, roly-poly youngsters, who 
tumble into the water almost from the egg-shell, div- 
ing and swimming like experts when 
a day old. They seem to pick up 
their own food from the water, 
but the parents also assist with 
larvee of water-bugs and tiny min- 
nows. ‘The young Grebe 
ne 
_— 
4, AMERICAN EARED GREBE. 
When tired, they are given a ride on the mother’s back. 
is seldom fed by having the food placed in its bill, but 
by a curious wisdom he is taught to help himself. 
Sometimes the bug is tossed into the group, and the 
smartest youngster gets the prize. Oftener it is laid on 
the water for a little one to pick up. The whole process 
is very like the way a hen places food in front of her 
chicks. | 
The mother’s watchful eye detects the first sign of 
weariness in the tiny swimmers, and gently diving be- 
neath them she gathers them on her back. 
