The last time I can recall seeing a red-necked grebe on our Saturday Morning Bird Walks was on my wedding day (April 12 1997). That was also a cold morning (2°F), but without the snow. Red-necked grebes in their basic (winter) plumage like the one we saw today are rather dusky overall. Shape is the best way to tell if you are looking at a red-necked grebe during the winter. They ride low like other diving birds and are a bit smaller in body size compared to a western grebe. They appear much smaller than a western only because their neck is not nearly as long. Red-necked grebes have a thick neck which gives them a sturdy appearance. Their head is broad and flat-topped and they have a long and sturdy bill.