I noticed that there was a pair of Great Crested Grebes who were investigating various nests. They were diving and bringing up vegetation and placing it on one of the nesting platforms. They then lost interest and I followed them as they dived and swam up to the very far end of the pond.
All this was between 10.53 and 11.01 when they finally moved on.
First the detritus was paraded and placed on the platform.
Then twigs were added..
and that was all for the moment! I was hoping to observe a "courting dance" but it was not to be.
I then walked through various parts of the park and through both the Woodland Gardens - but more of that for another day.
Having walked now for about three hours including a stop for a coffee and a quick bite to eat from the eatery in the Park I decided to go back to the car. Having packed most of my gear into the car and as the sun was now shining, I decided to have another quick look for the Grebes - and I'm glad I did.
They were back where I first saw them and more nest building was in progress.
From 14.05 to 14.16
They then decided to swim further down and came to another newly built platform and this is when their behaviour changed. Frustratingly they swam to the side where I now had no option but to take pictures directly into the sun.
They both inspected the platform and finally the female climbed onto it and lay down - this was a signal to the male.
Initially the male seemed shy of the messages so clearly being indicated by the female and turned away
but he changed his mind and their relationship was confirmed!
Finally they turned to face each other before
swimming off. And tomorrow (as is said) is another day....
I shall be watching out for little ones in due course. A pair bred successfully last year so fingers crossed....
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18 comments:
great shots marking the start of a new generation.Brilliant
Sheila
A beautiful set of shots, Tricia. I certainly look forward to seeing the little ones later in the year. John
Great bit of timing tricia. Thats just the way it - is sometimes you strike lucky!
FANTASTIC photos of an incredible species!
Great photos and descriptions, Tricia. I'm glad you turned back for a second look. My birding book says there is a Great Crested Grebe down here - but I have yet to see one.
Excellent set of pictures, Tricia.
grebe porn! nice captures Trish
Sheila - thank you
John - fingers crossed eh!
Warren - yes indeed. Right place and the right time
Owlman - great to see you here and thank you :)
Mick - I'm glad I went back too..
Dean - Thank you!
Pete - Ta - I hope my post isn't censored then!
Hi Tricia, I expect if you go back again they will be repeating the performance several times. They also do the courting dance many times in the spring. Good shots.
(So you needed you shades eventually then.) {:)
Nice series of pics & commentary. Lucky Tricia capturing THE action.
Roy - I shall be making a return trip and will try earlier in the day to get the light right - without shades!
Frank - Thanks and yes - I WAS lucky!! Lol
Very nice series of photos!
That is one cool looking Grebe!
Beautiful shots of a beautiful species, Tricia.
Delightful photos Tricia, I will await developments!
Thank you Graham - they are wonderful birds :)
Hi ShySongbird - watch this space!
What a lovely story you have told with great pictures as always. Nature is a wonderful thing at times. And you had some exercise at the same time
Mum my fave bird lucky you! But we must discuss this voyeur melarky! hee hee.
Cant wait for the young ones to appear
Lv
SPD
MaineBirder -they are great looking birds I agree!
Avalon - Thank you. Yes - exercise, birding/wildlife and photography - heavenly!
SPD - Very droll! :D
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