Tachybaptus novaehollandiae (Australasian Grebe)

IUCN Status: Least Concern

Sometimes you can find a gem in an unexpected place. Visiting friends who live on a property with a dam I noticed these birds. They dove under the water whenever they felt threatened, but sitting still for an extended time seemed to ease their concern. So I was able to watch and learn a little about behaviour, to take photos in wonderful light, and exercise the new(ish) camera body.

Australasia Grebe this species goes through a metamorphisis twice a year. In the spring time it goes from a bland grassy brown colour into amazing dark brown, black, yellow and red breeding colours. Then in autumn it does the reverse. This individual has started and you can see the yellow coming in behind the eye, and beak is already dark, and the brown and black colouration on the back and neck is starting to show.

This individual was diving under the water over and over for food, often for periods in excess of 20 seconds. Each time he popped up he would look around to orient himself and check for threats. He was very clearly checking out if I’d moved, and if he’d come closer while under the water, he put more distance between us until on the other side of the invisible line that marked his perceived safety. Reviewing the shots showed that he was catching green grubs while under the water, and eating them on the surface.

How easy is it to get caught up in the rush and disconnect of modern life - especially in the city? Conversely, just an hour or so just sitting quietly by the water with nature, being still, reviving can undo and unwind that tension.