These Unique Birds are Migrating Through Colorado Right Now

From the tiniest feathered fledglings to the large raptors and waterfowl, Colorado is home to more than 400 different species of birds. Some avian species are more commonly seen than others, so it can be extra exciting when a rare or unique bird is spotted in the state.

Recently, Coloradans have been seeing lots of Western Grebes in local ponds, lakes, and reservoirs. Their distinct appearance featuring an incredibly sharp bill, beady red eyes, and long necks, make them easy to identify.

These beautiful waterbirds migrate through Colorado during the spring, breeding in marshy areas along the way. To find a mate, males and females participate in an elegant courtship dance in which they dash across the water together with their necks curved in an S-shape.

Read More: Uncharacteristic Weather Brings Rare Bird to Colorado 

Unfortunately, many grebes are also being located in parking lots and on roadways recently in Colorado. Grebes can mistake wet/icy parking lots and roads for waterways and crash on hard surfaces. Grebes rarely go ashore and can only take off from water, so once they land on the ground, they become stranded. If you find a grebe in a situation like this, it probably needs help. Contact a local wildlife rehabber in the area to assist.

LOOK: This Unique Colorado Species Has Been Around for Centuries

Living in wetland habitats, their diet consists primarily of fish and other aquatic species, like salamanders, insects, and crustaceans. Western Grebes forage by diving from the surface and swimming underwater, using their feet as propellers and their knife-like beaks to jab their prey.

Keep an eye out for these interesting birds the next time you're near water. They're fun to watch in their natural environment.