What physical feature gives the Eared Grebe its common North American name?

Answer

Distinctive golden plumes fanning from behind the eye

The North American name 'eared grebe' is derived from the distinctive golden plumes that the bird sports during the breeding season, fanning out from behind its bright red eye.

What physical feature gives the Eared Grebe its common North American name?
birdanimalFeaturewaterfowlGrebe