Common name: Little Grebe
Scientific name: Tachybaptus ruficollis
Family: Podicipedidae

Size:
Body length: 23–29 cm
Wingspan: 40–45 cm
Weight: 120–250 g

Identification:
A small, compact diving bird with a rounded body, short neck, and pointed bill. In breeding plumage, adults show rich chestnut coloration on the neck and cheeks with darker brown upperparts and a pale yellow gape spot at the base of the bill. Non-breeding birds are duller with paler cheeks and throat. Often appears tail-less due to its very short tail.

Habitat:
Freshwater ponds, marshes, lakes, reservoirs, canals, and calm wetland habitats with vegetation.

Status in the UAE:
Common resident and breeder in freshwater wetlands and urban water bodies.

Status in Lebanon:
Resident and breeder in suitable freshwater habitats, with additional winter visitors.

Diet:
Carnivorous — feeds on aquatic insects, small fish, crustaceans, tadpoles, and other aquatic invertebrates.

Behavior:
Excellent diver and swimmer, often disappearing underwater for extended periods while hunting. Usually seen singly or in pairs. Builds floating nests anchored to aquatic vegetation. Secretive and often stays close to reeds or shoreline cover. Gives trilling and whinnying calls, especially during breeding season.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)