The Western Grebe is an elegant bird with its striking colors, and its red eyes, which of course can't be seen in this photo. They breed in lakes and ponds across the American West. So Fern Ridge Lake is a perfect place for them to be seen.

One quite unusual thing about the Western Grebe, as well as the Clark's Grebe, is their courting display which is much like a synchronized dance routine, where both male and female rush across the surface of the water with their long necks extended. Perhaps you have seen this display. I don't believe I have seen that in person.