Conservation of black-necked grebes, a rare breeding visitor to UK lakes and reservoirs.
Key Facts
Fewer than 50 pairs of black-necked grebes breed in the UK in most years
They breed colonially in association with black-headed gull colonies
UK population has expanded slightly from a very low base in recent decades
Wintering populations on sheltered coastal waters are more numerous than breeders
Colony sites require protection from disturbance during the breeding season
Welfare Considerations
Individual black-necked grebe chicks are vulnerable to disturbance at colony sites, requiring strict protection and wardening during the breeding season.
What You Can Do
Support RSPB protection of known black-necked grebe breeding colonies
Avoid approaching active breeding sites during the breeding season
Record black-necked grebe breeding attempts to assist population monitoring