Horned Grebe  ( Grèbe esclavon )     

Back to Checklist

General Notes

The population of Horned Grebe appears to be decreasing significantly, according to a recent analysis of Breeding Bird Survey records conducted by National Audubon Society scientists. It is possible that the North American population has decreased by as much as 76 percent in the last 40 years, although there is insufficient data about this species to be highly confident in the actual magnitude of the population decline. The trend, however, is considered statistically significant.

On May 4, 2009 the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) recommended that this species be added to Canada’s list of species at risk. Over 90% of the Horned Grebe’s North American breeding range is in Canada. A status of Special Concern has been recommended for the core of its breeding range in western Canada, while the small, disjunct population that inhabits the Magdalene Islands in Québec has been recommended as Endangered. Loss and degradation of wetland habitats, coupled with off-shore threats in staging areas and the wintering grounds, are thought to be responsible for declines seen in this species.

Typical spring arrival:

Typical fall arrival:

Typical spring departure:

Typical fall departure:

Documented Observations

During May 27-28 or June 20-22, 1997. One observed at Hilliardton Marsh during field work for a Master's thesis by David Locky.

During May 23-25 or 18-20, 1998. Two observed at Hilliardton Marsh by David Locky during field work for his Master's thesis.