National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
alaotra grebe
Regions
Madagascar
Population
0
Habitat
Inhabited freshwater lakes and marshes around Lake Alaotra
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
not well-documented and Specific data is limited.
Regions
Madagascar
The Alaotra grebe, also known as Delacour's little grebe or rusty grebe, was a small waterbird measuring approximately 25 centimeters in length. It possessed a dark, oily blackish cap extending down the nape, pale cinnamon-colored throat and ear-coverts, and mottled dusky and rufous underparts. Its back was dark brown, and it featured a solid blackish bill with a white tip. The species had small wings, limiting its ability to fly long distances, which contributed to its confinement to the Lake Alaotra region. Primarily piscivorous, the Alaotra grebe fed on fish, though insects were also part of its diet. The species experienced a significant decline in the 20th century due to habitat destruction, entanglement in fishing nets, and predation by introduced species. The last confirmed sighting was in 1985, and despite conservation efforts, the species was declared extinct in 2010.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
