Hoary-headed Grebe

Poliocephalus poliocephalus is an Australian grebe that has colonised New Zealand. It differs from New Zealand dabchick through its smaller head pattern, dark eye and streaked silvery-white breeding head. Breeding adults have a black cap over a finely streaked pale face. Non-breeding birds are plainer grey and can be difficult to separate at distance.

It is a scarce and irregular breeder, chiefly on South Island lakes and oxidation ponds. Open freshwater with abundant small prey is favoured. It dives for aquatic insects, crustaceans and small fish. Birds may gather in loose flocks outside breeding periods.

The New Zealand classification is Coloniser. Lake Elterwater in Marlborough has held birds, but current presence should be checked locally.