Quite common on lakes, reservoirs, and broad rivers, especially where reeds fringe the water and provide sites for its floating nest. In winter—particularly during freezing spells—it may also appear on sheltered coastal waters. Pairs defend territories in the breeding season, but groups gather outside it. A large, graceful grebe with a long neck, it shows rich tawny cheeks and dark crests in breeding plumage, the crests often lying flat. In nonbreeding dress, the face and neck turn bright white, highlighted by a dark line through the eye.