ML612130838

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

Context: While searching for other rarities with Pedro Ramalho, with who I made most of the observations during this morning, we had already noticed the absence of any black-necked grebes though the area and he commented the possible presence of a Slavonian. While Pedro explored another section of the lagoon, I spotted a couple of black-necked grebes using my Nikon P950 though I told him that I could not guarantee the correct identification of both birds. Initially, he counted five birds, but later he identified a putative Slavonian, a confirmation I also obtained through my camera (NIKON P950, refer to the attached photos) and the telescope. Identification: The overall appearance suggests a rather flat bird, deviating from a more rounded pattern. The head exhibited a somewhat triangular shape, in contrast to the rounded head shape of the black-necked grebe, giving it the overall impression of a smaller 'red-necked grebe' (Podiceps grisegena, as we discussed this distinctive pattern in the field). We observed a specific trait—a flatter forehead with a gently sloping angle, as opposed to a steep forehead, suggesting a somewhat triangular head pattern, as previously reported. Another noticeable aspect was the well-defined 'back cap' with a clear and distinct border and edge, contrasting with the whiter cheek, instead of the blurry border typical of the black-necked grebe. The bill was notably shorter, as evident in the attached photos. This marks my third record of this species to date, adding to a previous sighting in this area and the initial record in California, USA. Note: Further details will be added upon closer inspection of the photos.

Technical information

Model

COOLPIX P950

ISO

400

Focal length

357 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire

f-stop

f/6.5

Shutter speed

1/320 sec

Dimensions

815 pixels x 617 pixels

Original file size

243.13 KB