Of the two Aechmophorus Grebe‘s, Western is usally found near to or on the coast. It breeds in freshwater lakes and at the Salton Sea.
Field marks to note are dull, dusky yellow bill and black cap that extends to and surrounds the eye. Salton Sea NWR. Southern California, USA. August-2007. Canon 10D Digital SLR and 100-400mm IS USM Lens. ISO 400.
In flight, Western Grebe shows less white in the wing. Salton Sea NWR. Southern California, USA. August-2007. Canon 10D Digital SLR and 100-400mm IS USM Lens. ISO 400.
The hind neck of the Western shows a thicker black stripe. Compare to photos of Clark’s Grebe. Salton Sea NWR. Southern California, USA. August-2007. Canon 10D Digital SLR and 100-400mm IS USM Lens. ISO 400.
Salton Sea NWR. Southern California, USA. August-2007. Canon 10D Digital SLR and 100-400mm IS USM Lens. ISO 400.