What factor contributes significantly to the under-reporting or misidentification of wintering Horned Grebes?
Answer
The drab winter dress causing confusion with other small grebes
The pale winter phase can lead to confusion with other diving birds or small grebes, which contributes to under-reporting or misidentification when the bird is not expected.
Related Questions
What is the formal scientific name for the Horned Grebe?What feature in breeding plumage gives the Horned Grebe its common name?How does the Horned Grebe's plumage appear during the winter months?Where are the primary breeding grounds of the Horned Grebe located across North America?What habitat do Horned Grebes typically favor during migration and winter periods?What specific type of lake do Horned Grebes utilize for breeding in Minnesota?What factor contributes significantly to the under-reporting or misidentification of wintering Horned Grebes?During which period does spring migration generally occur as birds move north?What do long-term monitoring programs, like the BBS, suggest about the continental population trend of the Horned Grebe?What is a key identification marker for a Horned Grebe in its non-breeding plumage?