Black-necked Grebe by Neil Loverock

Obtaining point-blank views of a breeding-plumaged Black-necked Grebe in Britain is not an easy task – partly because this is a very scarce bird here, but also because the few places it does breed are not particularly accessible. Thus, to see this species up close, like Neil Loverock did in Derbyshire this week, is a rare event.

With opportunities to really nail the species being few and far between, Neil had to make the most of the opportunity that this bird afforded him. Capturing the grebe in an alert pose as it vocalises, this is quite an unusual shot in a British context that shows off the bird's stunning plumage to perfection. Choosing a low angle has ensured that the background is diffuse and there are no distracting ripples around the grebe. Congratulations to Neil on this super shot!

Other notable images

Great Northern Diver, undisclosed site, Iceland (John Dickenson).

Green Heron, Crooked Creek, Monroe County, Indiana (Steve Bell).

Red-footed Falcon, Carlton Marshes SWT, Suffolk (Jim Mountain).

Puffin, Skomer, Pembrokeshire (Carl Bovis).

South Polar Skua, at sea, Suðurland (Silas Olofson).

Red-footed Booby, Worbarrow, Dorset (Jane Jenkins).

Long-billed Dowitcher, Portmore Lough RSPB, Antrim (Aaron Long).

Common Swift, Kilnsea, East Yorkshire (Tate Lloyd).

Woodpigeon, Bicester, Oxfordshire (Nick Truby).

European Stonechat, Allendale, Northumberland (Jack Bucknall).

Robin, Taunton, Somerset (Les Moxon).

Sedge Warbler, Kilnsea, East Yorkshire (Tate Lloyd).

Greenfinch, Llandudno, Caernarfon (Bob Garrett).

Goldfinch, Marazion Marsh RSPB, Cornwall (Martin Webb).