What is "podiceps"

Podiceps \Pod"i*ceps\, n. [NL., fr. L. podex, podicis, anus + pes foot.] (Zo["o]l.) See Grebe.

Podiceps is a genus of birds in the grebe family. The genus name comes from Latin podicis, "vent" and pes, "foot", and is a reference to the placement of a grebe's legs towards the rear of its body.

It has representatives breeding in Europe, Asia, North, and South America. Most northern hemisphere species migrate in winter to the coast or warmer climates.

They breed in vegetated areas of freshwater lakes, nesting on the water's edge, since their legs are set too far back for easy walking. Usually two eggs are laid, and the striped young may be carried on the adult's back.

All the genus are excellent swimmers and divers, and pursue their fish prey underwater.

Adults have striking breeding plumage, with no difference between the sexes. In winter, the plumage is subdued whites and greys.