Red-necked grebes nest in many ponds across Alaska. It is also common to see the young riding on the back of the parents for protection. Adults take turns caring for the young and collecting food. Grebes dive for small aquatic animals and fish, and the little ones eat an amazing amount of food. Hours were spent in a small boat waiting for good light and an opportunity to get closer to this protective adult and chick. At one point a strong wind blew the boat close enough for a good shot.
Red-necked grebe and chickCanon 1Ds Mark II, 500mm f4.0L IS, hand held, 1/320 sec @ f4.0, ISO 500
