Little Grebe

The smallest and most secretive European grebe. It is a dumpy, fluffy waterbird found on small ponds and canals. It is a resident across most of Europe, although in harsh winters it may move to ice-free coastal waters.

Little Grebes are master divers and disappear underwater with barely a ripple. They often look like a 'fluffy ball' on the water. They vanish instantly if disturbed. Their presence is revealed by a loud, whinnying call that sounds like high-pitched laughter. They build floating nests.