Territorial dispute

Red-necked Grebes are very territorial, not only against other Red-necked Grebes but also against other water birds. Both males and females are involved in protecting their territory. A variety of chases and attacks are used, including an underwater attack in which the grebe swims underneath the intruder and jabs its underside with its bill. We were out on a small lake in Nome, Alaska, as the sun was setting at about 10:30 PM. This pair was busy building their nest at the far end of the lake, keeping a watchful eye on any intruders. With the sun setting behind, I captured this moment when both of them were calling out loud, defending their nesting territory.