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The Podicepidiformes are grebes. There are about 20 species in the order of freshwater diving birds, with a worldwide distribution (except for Antarctica). They are really good swimmers and divers but are quite ungainly walkers. They have narrow wings and are reluctant flyers. In fact, 2 species are flightless. Grebes have dense, waterproof plumage, and their underside feathers are at right angles to the skin. They can adjust their buoyancy in the water by pressing these feathers against their body.
Author: Robert Davis
Last updated: 21/11/05
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