Little Grebe (ಗುಂಡ್ಮುಲುಕ )

Little Grebe

Kodava Name: Gundmuluka (ಗುಂಡ್ಮುಲುಕ)
Scientific Name: Tachybaptus ruficollis
Common Name: Little Grebe

A tiny diver of Kodagu’s wetlands

The Little Grebe is a small, compact waterbird that lives around ponds, lakes, marshes and other freshwater wetlands. It is an excellent diver and can disappear beneath the water surprisingly quickly. It is often found close to reeds and aquatic vegetation, where its small size and quiet behaviour can make it easy to overlook.

Identifying Features

• Small, compact waterbird with a rounded head
• Short, pointed bill
• Plump-looking body and short tail
• Breeding plumage: dark overall, with a rich rusty-brown head and neck
• A noticeable yellow patch occurs at the base of the bill
• Non-breeding plumage: generally paler brown with a darker cap
• Often seen alone or in small groups

Feeding & Behaviour

The Little Grebe spends much of its time on or beneath the water. It dives to search for small aquatic prey and can remain surprisingly inconspicuous among reeds and vegetation.

Unlike larger waterbirds, it often keeps close to the edges of wetlands rather than spending long periods in open water.

Habitat in Kodagu

In Kodagu, suitable freshwater habitats such as ponds, lakes, marshy areas and vegetated water bodies can provide important spaces for small wetland birds like the Little Grebe.

The presence of such birds reminds us that Kodagu’s biodiversity extends beyond its forests and coffee landscapes to its freshwater ecosystems as well.

Why It Matters

The Little Grebe is part of the fascinating community of wetland birds that make up the Birds of Kodagu.

Protecting ponds, marshes, reeds, aquatic vegetation and clean freshwater habitats helps maintain the ecological diversity on which these birds depend.