From NoCo Wildlife Center: Watch for Grebes in Need During Snowstorms!

We’ve already begun receiving calls about grebes in need, and with more winter storms on the way, we want to help our community know what to watch for.

Grebes are diving birds whose legs sit far back on their bodies; an adaptation that makes them incredible swimmers but leaves them almost helpless on land. Because they must take off from water, a grebe that lands on solid ground cannot regain flight.

After snowstorms, it’s common for grebes flying overhead to mistake wet, shiny, or snow covered roads and parking lots for rivers or lakes. Once they land, they quickly become stranded, unable to stand or fly, and are at serious risk from the cold, predators, vehicles, and exhaustion.

If you find a grebe grounded on land, they need help. If it’s safe, contain them in a dark, breathable box and contact your local wildlife rehabilitator right away. 

Most grebes can be fully rehabilitated when they reach us quickly, but only if compassionate community members know what to look for and when to call.

If you’d like to support our wildlife hospital as we respond to winter cases like these, you can make a Colorado Gives Day gift here:

https://www.coloradogives.org/donate/Nocowildlife

Or mail/drop off a donation to:

Northern Colorado Wildlife Center

2637 Midpoint Drive, Suite E

Fort Collins, CO 80525

Thank you for helping us protect Colorado’s wildlife this winter and beyond!

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