Junin Grebe

The Junin grebe, known scientifically as Podiceps taczanowskii, is a captivating species of grebe that is endemic to the high-altitude Lake Junin in the Andean highlands of west-central Peru. This bird, approximately 35 cm in length, is adorned with a dark grey crown that extends down the back of its neck to a black back. Its underparts are a contrasting white, and it possesses a narrow grey bill. The most striking feature of the Junin grebe is its bright red eyes, which are particularly vivid against its more subdued plumage. Adults boast silvery grey feathers on the sides of their heads, a feature absent in non-breeding adults and juveniles.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Junin grebe, look for its red eyes and the distinctive silvery grey feathers on the sides of the heads of adults. It can be confused with the northern silvery grebe, which is smaller, has a shorter neck, and a shorter bill, but also inhabits Lake Junin.

Habitat

The Junin grebe is a specialist of the aquatic environment, making its home exclusively in the waters and surrounding reed marshes of Lake Junin.

Distribution

This species is a true endemic, found nowhere else in the world but Lake Junin in Peru. The lake spans an area of approximately 140 km² and has a maximum depth of 10 meters, though most parts are shallower than 5 meters.

Behaviour

The Junin grebe exhibits fascinating courtship behavior, including a 'head-shaking' display where two grebes face each other breast to breast, rapidly turning their heads from side to side. Outside of the breeding season, these birds prefer the open water, venturing far from the lake shores.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Junin grebe includes melodic whistles such as "doo’ ith" and "wit," as well as a longer "phooee-th" call used during courtship to attract a mate.

Breeding

Breeding takes place in the reed beds that fringe Lake Junin, with nests built within 8–75 meters of these reeds. The typical clutch size is two eggs, laid in December or January. Successful breeding is closely tied to the water level of the lake; low levels can prevent the birds from raising young.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Junin grebe is predominantly piscivorous, with a preference for small fish less than 2.5 cm long, which constitute about 90% of its diet. The remainder includes small invertebrates. These birds are adept divers, catching fish underwater, though they may also snatch insects from the surface.

Conservation status

The Junin grebe is currently classified as Endangered. Its population has dwindled from over 1000 individuals in 1961 to an estimated 300–400 individuals, including 140–320 adults. Factors contributing to its decline include water level fluctuations, pollution, habitat destruction, and competition with introduced species. Conservation efforts are ongoing, including education initiatives and attempts to enforce stricter environmental regulations.