Great Crested Grebe

Podiceps cristatus, the pūteketeke, is a native diving bird concentrated in the South Island. It differs from smaller local grebes through its long neck, white face and black-and-chestnut breeding crest. Breeding adults have dark double crests and chestnut facial ruffs. In winter the head pattern becomes plainer, while the neck remains long and white-fronted.

New Zealand birds occur mainly on South Island lakes and reservoirs. Sheltered bays with open water and fringing vegetation are important breeding habitat. They dive for fish and aquatic invertebrates and swallow feathers. Pairs perform elaborate mirrored courtship displays on the water.

The New Zealand classification is Nationally Vulnerable. Lake Wānaka, Lake Hayes and Lake Alexandrina are reliable places to look.