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Presidio of San Francisco Crissy Field Center across the marsh
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Presidio of San Francisco
Western Grebe
(Aechmophorus occidentalis)
 
Western Grebe
Will Elder, NPS
A Western Grebe swims at Crissy Marsh.
 

Natural History: This bird feeds on fish by pursuing them and diving into the water, but it also eats invertebrates. It is commonly found resting on water. This species nests colonies from May to August. It breeds in large expanses of water with nest platforms often floating in emergent vegetation. It can often be found in mixed flocks with Clark's Grebe.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in bays and the ocean.

Frequency: This animal is abundantly found during the fall, winter, and spring months.

Identifying Characteristics: This species is distinguished by its long, white, swanlike neck. It displays a dark/black plumage on its upper side and is white below.

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Franciscan monk

Did You Know?
In 1776, Father Pedro Font wrote, "The port of San Francisco...is a marvel of nature, and might well be called a harbor of harbors...And I think if it could be well settled like Europe there would not be anything more beautiful in all the world."

Last Updated: November 16, 2007 at 17:22 MST