Red-necked Grebe Nest

     A pair of Red-necked Grebes has established a nest right beside the viewing platform on West Gaetz Lake. The viewing platform can be busy with people but it doesn't seem to disturb the birds . I fact it almost looks like they are begging.

    Red-necked Grebes are very common here. Usually you see a nest 15-20 m(45-60 ft.) off shore. They are very visible at that distance. For this nest , you are right above them ...about 2 m (6 ft).

   Unless I would be right there when the eggs hatch I would not see the new grebes. The little fellows leave right away and ride on the parent's back even when the parent dives.

This bird was right in the area of the nest ready to trade sitting duties.

Patiently waiting an exchange

Away I go. There was a lot of squawking when the bird came off the nest . The bird coming off the nest left the area immediately.

The usual messy nest just above water level

And finally settling down for brooding duty.