Eastern Little Grebe

Tachybaptus novaehollandiae is a tiny Australasian grebe and recent New Zealand colonist. It differs from New Zealand dabchick through its smaller size, short bill and chestnut face with a yellow gape patch. Breeding adults have a glossy dark head, rich chestnut neck and bright yellow skin at the bill base. Non-breeding birds are duller grey-brown.

It remains very local in northern New Zealand, using small sheltered freshwater bodies. Records and breeding locations can change as the young population develops. It dives for aquatic insects, crustaceans and tiny fish. Pairs use floating vegetation nests and quickly conceal themselves at disturbance.

The checklist classifies it as Coloniser. Small Northland lakes provide the best possibility, but recent local reports should be checked before visiting.