Conserving the Critically Endangered Symbol of Patagonia – Restoring the Population of Hooded Grebe

Discovered in 1974, the Hooded Grebe has an estimated population of fewer than 800 mature individuals, having declined by 80% since the 1980s. The species breeds in specific crystal-clear lakes on highland plateaus in western Santa Cruz, Argentina, and faces numerous threats from invasive species, climate events, and habitat changes.

This project, implemented by Aves Argentinas and BirdLife International, will build on previous conservation efforts by delivering direct interventions to restore the conditions needed for the Hooded Grebe to thrive. These interventions include removing invasive species such as American Mink, Rainbow Trout, and Kelp Gull, which threaten breeding habitats. Climate-adaptive devices will be used to protect nest sites from extreme weather events. The project will continue ex-situ hand-rearing programs to ensure annual population growth and conduct further research to enhance understanding of the species little known biology and ecology. Additionally, the project will focus on raising local awareness about the importance of conserving the Hooded Grebe.

Through this multi-pronged approach, the project aims not only to prevent the extinction of this species but also to set in place measures to preserve the unique biodiversity of Patagonia.