Uncommon breeder on marshes. Hardy, winters on Great Lakes and ocean. Extreme winters freeze birds out, resulting in southward movement. ID: Large, thick-necked grebe with stout, straight yellowish bill. Young and nonbr birds are similar but nondescript with adults having warmer tones on neck. Most have capped appearance and darker cheeks. Breeding birds have lovely head and neck pattern. Size, shape, and bill always diagnostic. In flight, bold white secondaries.