Junin Grebe

Podiceps gallardoi

The Junin Grebe (Podiceps gallardoi) is a small, flightless waterbird endemic to Lake Junin in the Andes of Peru. This species has a distinctive appearance, with a black head and neck, white underparts, and a reddish-brown back. It is well adapted to its aquatic lifestyle, with lobed toes and a streamlined body for efficient swimming and diving. The Junin Grebe primarily feeds on small fish and invertebrates, using its sharp bill to catch prey beneath the water's surface. Unfortunately, the species is critically endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of non-native species to Lake Junin.

Habitat: Lake Junin, Andes of Peru