Grebe Feet

Illustration of an eared grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) depicting the unique structure of their hind limbs; the toes are “lobed” rather than webbed like many other aquatic birds, and the legs are set far back on the body such that walking on land is difficult. This piece was inspired by an eared grebe I rescued on the Marina State Beach in California. The bird had been marooned and tried to “swim” away as I carried it, allowing me a view of its strange toes in action.

Adobe Photoshop