The Horned Grebe in breeding plumage is one of the most striking small waterbirds — the golden 'horns' fanning back from the red eyes are spectacular. It nests on small boreal lakes and winters on coastal bays. Like all grebes, it eats feathers — up to half the stomach contents — which apparently protect the digestive tract from fish bones.
Best time to see a Horned Grebe
The best time to see a Horned Grebe is January–April, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 17,184 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Horned Grebe? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Horned Grebe sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Horned Grebe?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.