high up in the mountains of Costa Rica, our retreat offers not just stunning views and tranquility, but also the chance to encounter a remarkable variety of birdlife. Today, we turn our gaze to a feathered friend so small, you might miss it if you blink: the Least Grebe.

Living up to its name, the Least Grebe is the smallest member of the grebe family in the Americas. This little wonder clocks in at just 9-10 inches tall, making it even smaller than a robin! But don’t let its size fool you. The Least Grebe is a master of its aquatic domain.

A Dashing Diver

With its dark grey plumage and a distinctively pale “fluff” on its backside, the Least Grebe cuts a sleek figure on the water. Its bright yellow eyes gleam with an intelligence that belies its diminutive stature. The thin, sharp bill is perfectly adapted for spearing small fish, insects, and aquatic invertebrates – its primary food source.

But the Least Grebe isn’t content with just gliding on the surface. This little dynamo is an expert diver, disappearing into the depths with barely a ripple. Its powerful legs propel it underwater, where it can remain for surprisingly long periods, hunting for prey amongst the aquatic plants.

A Secretive Charmer

While the Least Grebe can be found throughout Costa Rica, from the southern reaches to the wetlands bordering Nicaragua, it prefers freshwater ponds and marshes with plenty of vegetation. This provides both cover and a rich hunting ground.

Here at our mountain retreat, the Least Grebe can be a shy visitor. Its small size and secretive nature make it easy to overlook. However, with a little patience and a keen eye, you might spot it flitting across the surface of a hidden pond, its bright yellow eyes catching the sunlight.

Breeding Beauty

The Least Grebe’s breeding plumage is particularly captivating. During this time, the face darkens, and a beautiful black crest appears on the head. This crest, along with elaborate courtship displays involving dives and head throws, makes the Least Grebe a tiny titan in the world of avian romance.

The female Least Grebe constructs a floating nest of aquatic plants, where she lays a clutch of 3-7 eggs. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks after they hatch. These fuzzy bundles of fluff are even more adorable than their parents, with their striped heads and oversized feet.

A Reminder of the Small Wonders

The Least Grebe is a reminder that beauty and wonder can come in all sizes. This tiny bird, with its diving prowess, secretive habits, and breeding plumage, adds another layer of magic to the rich tapestry of birdlife that graces our mountain retreat.

So, the next time you’re exploring the hidden ponds and streams around our retreat, keep your eyes peeled. You might just be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Least Grebe – a tiny treasure in our midst.

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

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