Great Crested Grebe

The great crested grebe is the largest grebe of the Old World, 46–51 centimetres long with a wingspan of 59–73 centimetres, weighing 0.9–1.5 kilograms. Adults are unmistakable in summer, with striking black, orange-brown and white head and neck decorations. In winter it is whiter than most grebes, with white above the eye and a pink bill. It is an excellent swimmer and diver and pursues fish underwater. Three subspecies are accepted. (Wikipedia, general species account)

The species breeds in vegetated areas of freshwater lakes; the nominate form occurs across Europe and east across the Palearctic. It is resident in the milder west but migrates from colder regions, wintering on freshwater lakes, reservoirs or the coast. The mating display is elaborate, with synchronised dances. Both sexes build the nest at the water's edge and incubate an average of four chalky-white eggs for 27–29 days, and the precocial young can swim and dive almost from hatching. (Wikipedia, general species account)