. Birds of America;. Birds -- North America. GREBES Order Pygopodes: suborder Colyiubi: family ('olyujbidcr HE Grebes are much less pronounced, and consequently less interesting bird characters, than are the Loons, though both families have some of the same physical characteristics, notably skill in the water and clumsiness on land. They are smaller than the Loons and are more likely to be found in inland bodies of fresh water, though their migrations take them to the sea where they are by no means entirely out of their element. Like the Loons, when pursued the Grebes tr>' to escajje by div
. Birds of America;. Birds -- North America. GREBES Order Pygopodes: suborder Colyiubi: family ('olyujbidcr HE Grebes are much less pronounced, and consequently less interesting bird characters, than are the Loons, though both families have some of the same physical characteristics, notably skill in the water and clumsiness on land. They are smaller than the Loons and are more likely to be found in inland bodies of fresh water, though their migrations take them to the sea where they are by no means entirely out of their element. Like the Loons, when pursued the Grebes tr>' to escajje by diving and swimming under water, where they propel themselves by their feet; and generally they show decided dis- inclination to take to their wings, though they are swift and strong flyers. Grebes undoubtedly dive with remarkable quickness, but, as in the case of the Loons (and for the same reasons), their cleverness in this operation has been much exaggerated, as at any reasonable distance they are quite unable to dodge a rifle bullet, especially if it be propelled by smokeless powder. Grebes have feet which are lobate, that is, each toe has one or more separate mem- branes which are joined only at the base. The toes are flattened and the nails short and round. The shanks are so flattened as to be nearly blade-like. The bill, which is cone- shajjed, is about the length of the head. The head is generally rufTed or crested, at least in the breeding season, and the neck long. The wings are short and the tail is invisible. The plumage is compact, smooth, and rather hair-like; when well dressed by the bird it is absolutely waterproof, and, therefore, Grebes, though water birds, are never wet. The III. Please note that these images are extracted from scanned page images that may have been digitally enhanced for readability - coloration and appearance of these illustrations may not perfectly resemble the original Pearson, T. Gilbert (Thomas Gilbert), 1873-1943. New York, The Uni
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