When we saw this bird this morning and I identified it as a Red-necked Grebe, someone commented “Looks like a Gray-necked Grebe to me.”

There is no red showing on the neck or anywhere else. From September to March, these birds do have a gray neck.

From March on until August, during their breeding season, Red-necked Grebes DO have a red neck:

Other birds:

Some botany:

Today’s group:

NATURE POETRY

Who said November’s face was grim? 
Who said her voice was harsh and sad?
I heard her sing in wood paths dim,
I met her on the shore, so glad,
So smiling, I could kiss her feet!
There never was a month so sweet.   – Lucy Larcom (1824-93)

Miles Hearn