BIRDS 



185 



throat shaded with black and white, and dark back crossed by 

 rows of white flecks. The under side is white, as in so many 

 birds and other animals. 



There are two other British Divers: Black-throated Diver (Colymbus arcticus)', 

 Red-throated Diver (C. septentrionalis). 



Grebes resemble the preceding groups in many respects, but 

 their toes are expanded into lobes instead of being webbed, and 



Fig. 126. Razorbills (Alca torda) 



the tail is very small, and provided with a downy tuft instead 

 of the usual quills. The plumage of Grebes is much used for 

 ornamental purposes, and its beauty is mainly due to the silky 

 white feathers which cover the breast. 



The most familiar member of the group in Britain is the 

 Dabchick or Little Grebe (Podicipes fluviatilis), a bird which has 

 a very wide range and is common on rivers and ponds. 



Other Grebes which occur in British waters are: Slavonian Grebe (Podicipes 

 auritus}\ Great Crested Grebe (P. cristatus), Red-necked Grebe (P. griseigend)-, 

 Eared Grebe (P. nigricollis}. 



