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. 



Thj 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 

 larvae of water-bugs and tiny min- 

 nows. The young Grebe 



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. 



