There are 23 species of diving birds in this family, including three extinct species.

Grebes are found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and rivers around the world, except for in the polar regions. Some species winter along ocean coasts.

Grebes have stocky bodies; thick, waterproof feathers; long, slightly webbed, lobed toes; long necks; small heads; and small tails.

Some species have long, pointed bills; other species have medium-length, conical bills.

Their legs are set back on their bodies, and grebes are clumsy on land. When they walk on land, they stand upright like penguins. Males and females look alike, but males are a little larger.

Grebes are very good divers and swimmers. They often swim with just their heads above the water.

Grebes have to run across the water to take off in flight.

Grebes dive from the surface of the water for fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Grebes also eat insects and their own feathers.

Grebes nest on floating aquatic vegetation. Both the male and the female care for the chicks and often carry them on their backs.