The Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) is a water bird in the Podicipedidae family.
It's a rather shy bird. This excellent swimmer and diver can sink to a depth of 20 m (usually 4-6 m) for up to 3 minutes. It can also travel several dozen meters underwater.
It is a partial migrant. Although the species is mainly sedentary, some Great Crested Grebes from northern parts of its range descend to spend the winter in estuaries and along sandy coasts when the freshwater freezes. However, they soon return to continental waters to nest as soon as the spring Grebe begins. The only time the grebe is willing to fly is during migration. It flies rather low, rapidly activating its wings, neck and legs outstretched. The legs act as rudders, both in the air and in the water.
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