O GREBES. 



GREBES. 



Are birds which are seen upon both salt 

 and fresh water, which when suddenly f right* 

 ened dive instantaneously and rarely fly. 

 They may be distinguished from most Ducks 

 by the short form, absence of tail, shown in 

 the rounded rump, more slender neck, and 

 pointed bill. This last named can be seen by 

 close observation almost as far as the bird 

 can be distinguished. From Coots, which they 

 somewhat resemble, they may be known by 

 the light colors beneath; Coots are dark all 

 over. 



Grebes ride lightly upon the water and 

 carry their heads well over their backs, see 

 figs. 1 and 3, thus differing from Loons which 

 swim low and carry their heads forward. If 

 approached slowly, Greb'es sink gradually, 

 sometimes leaving the head and neck ex- 

 posed. But when suddenly alarmed, they 

 dive like a flash, and if much frightened, will 

 not reappear for a long time, or will only put 

 their bills out of water in order to breath. 



