Western and the Clark's Grebe of Clear lake.
Mate selection of the Western and the Clark's grebe consists of two complex rituals: the Rushing Ceremony
(where both partners “run” across the surface of the water) and the Weed Ceremony (a pair dances together, holding vegetation in their bills).
Note that its black cap does not extend below the eye of the Clark's grebe. Bill orange-yellow. The Clark's grebe and Western grebe were formerly considered to be the same species. The distinguishing morphological difference between them is that the cap on the Western grebe extends past the eye. The bill of the Western grebe is yellow.
Song: A two-part crick-crick. Heard most often during breeding season, but also heard occasionally during winter.
If you've never experienced it, it's a must see April thru mid July. In Late August thru October you can see the adult pairs carrying their young on their back. The number of the Western and the Clark's grebe has declined over the years due to predators while nesting, pesticides, Habitat destruction, and direct disturbance while nesting.
Please: HELP PROTECT NESTING GREBES.

Western grebe images and Clark's grebe images