Horned Grebe In The Marsh At Bear River MBR

Winter Horned Grebe in marsh habitat – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

When I have the opportunity to photograph a Horned Grebe in the marsh at Bear River MBR I am going to jump at the chance and take as many photos as I can. A Bald Eagle or Peregrine Falcon could fly over and my focus would be on the grebe.

Why?

Because Horned Grebes are not all that common in northern Utah whereas I see eagles and falcons far more often. In addition I believe the these grebes are every bit as fascinating, beautiful, and interesting as any raptor. I won’t leave Horned Grebes until they are too far away or have hidden themselves in vegetation. That is who I am.

Winter Horned Grebe at Bear River MBR – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2000, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

Yesterday morning I had the chance to photograph this Horned Grebe on water that was reflecting a bright blue sky as it foraged and swam around on one of the water impoundments at the refuge. I was glad that this grebe gave me a clear view of its neck and face because that clinched the identification of this small, fluffy waterbird.

I photographed another grebe in this general area on January 2nd that I suspected was a Horned Grebe. That grebe didn’t give me these great close up views views. After carefully reviewing those images I determined that it was also a Horned Grebe. It could be the same bird.

Horned Grebe close up during winter – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/1250, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

This Horned Grebe may be overwintering at the refuge instead of the Pacific, Atlantic, or Gulf coasts. I honestly can’t say for sure but I know this for certain, I will be looking for it when I head back up to the refuge. I’d love to have more images of this bird.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see my Horned Grebe photos plus facts and information about this species.