Aechmophorus occidentalis
western grebe

Aechmophorus occidentalis is commonly found from Canada through California, and sometimes in Mexico. It usually occurs in the great plains and western states, but occasionally can be found in the eastern half of the United States.

Aechmophorus occidentalis is a migratory bird. It lives on freshwater lakes that have rushes and tules during the breeding season. It usualy stays on prairie lakes in British Columbia and California, and sometimes as far down as Mexico. In the winter A. occidentalis lives on the Pacific coast.

Aechmophorus occidentalis is the largest of the North American grebes, it ranges from 56-74 cm in length. It has a long neck and bill. The feet are at the far back of the body and the tail is reduced. The ankle and toe joints are very flexible to aid in manueverability in the water. The head, neck, and body are a blackish brown color from above, and white from below. The Western Grebe has a dull yellow or olive-colored bill and red eyes surrounded by dark coloration. In flight a white wing stripe is exposed. The sexes are monomorphic year round.

Aechmophorus clarkii, Clark's grebe, was only recently recognized as a separate species. Clark's grebes have white surrounding the eye and a bill that is bright yellow to orange-yellow. Their flanks have more white areas and the back is a lighter gray.

Aechemophorus occidentalis is a solitary bird except when it migrates. It migrates in a loosely formed flock, and then spreads out to feed when it lands. During breeding season the pair nests near other birds on the lake, but becomes very territorial and aggressive towards other nesting pairs. The courtship behavior of A. occidentalis is very complex. They go through a series of special displays, postures, and calls to attract a mate. There is no special hierarchy that determines who gets to mate. It relies on who can attract the female.

Aechmophorus occidentalis is a carnivore. It mostly eats fish, but also eats insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. The Western grebe is an aggressive hunter. It dives under the water and spears fish with its long bill.

There were no negative influences found.

Aechmophorus occidentalis is of economic interest to tourists, scientists, and developers. Tourists regularly go to wildlife refuges and preserves to go birdwatching. This brings entrance fees to the wildlife parks and refuges. Scientists are interested in A. occidentalis because its habitat (the wetlands) is being taken over by development. The fact that they are still thriving shows the condition of the environment.

Aechemophorus occidentalis is not endangered or threatened. They are however are affected by oil spills and insecticides found in their food. The insecticides affect their breeding. Another danger to this bird is the reduction in habitat. Lakes and marshes that A. occidentalis occupies are being taken over by human development. At this time A. occidentalis hasn't been affected very much by these threats.