Grebes are inhabitants of the Old and New Continents. Among the European species may be noticed the Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus), [Fig. 83], about the size of a Duck, ornamented with a double black crest; the Horned Grebe (P. cornutus), provided with two long tufts of feathers, in form somewhat resembling a horn; the Eared Grebe (P. auritus), distinguished by its beak, the base of which is depressed, while the point is raised upwards. Among the American species may be mentioned P. Carolinensis and P. rubricollis, killed at the Great Slave Lake, along with P. cristatus and P. cornutus. P. Chilensis and P. Americanus are natives of the warmer parts of America, of St. Thomas, St. Domingo, and the Philippines.

The Crested Grebe.

English Synonyms.—Greater Crested Grebe: Jenyns. Crested Grebe: Montagu, Selby.

Latin Synonyms.—Colymbus cristatus: Linn., Yarrell. C. urinatur: Young, Linn. Podiceps cristatus: Latham, Jenyns, Bonaparte, Selby.

French Synonym.—Grèbe huppé: Temminck.

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Fig. 83.—The Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus).

The Crested Grebe is found along our coasts, and in their estuaries, in limited numbers; but in the splendid lakes of the North American fur-countries, according to Dr. Richardson, this species is very abundant. Mr. Audubon says that it returns to the United States from its northern wanderings about the beginning of September, and proceeds south as far as Mexico, a few stragglers only remaining on the lower part of the Ohio, Mississippi, and the neighbouring lakes. "They pass swiftly through the air," says this enthusiastic naturalist, "at the height of about a hundred yards, in flocks of from seven and eight to fifty or more, proceeding in a loose body, and propelling themselves by continual flappings, their necks and feet stretched out to their full extent. When about to alight on the water, they glide swiftly downward, with their wings half closed, producing a sound not unlike that of a Hawk swooping upon its prey. At this moment their velocity is so great that, on alighting, they glide forward on the surface of the water for twenty or thirty yards, leaving a deep furrow in their wake. They are exceedingly quick-sighted, and frequently elude, by diving, the shot which is aimed at them."

Fig. 84.—Guillemots (Uria Troile).