“feet at the buttocks”
A pied billed grebe, nonbreeding plumage.
Racing away from the pontoon boat as we drifted closer.
We try not to get too close but sometimes I miscalculate.
Podilymbus podiceps
The Latin genus name for “grebe” means “feet at the buttocks”—an apt descriptor for these birds, whose feet are indeed located near their rear ends. This body plan, a common feature of many diving birds, helps grebes propel themselves through water. Lobed (not webbed) toes further assist with swimming. Pied-billed Grebes pay for their aquatic prowess on land, where they walk awkwardly.
Racing away from the pontoon boat as we drifted closer.
We try not to get too close but sometimes I miscalculate.
Podilymbus podiceps
The Latin genus name for “grebe” means “feet at the buttocks”—an apt descriptor for these birds, whose feet are indeed located near their rear ends. This body plan, a common feature of many diving birds, helps grebes propel themselves through water. Lobed (not webbed) toes further assist with swimming. Pied-billed Grebes pay for their aquatic prowess on land, where they walk awkwardly.
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