When the Horned Grebe (Podiceps auritus) emerged from the water on Monday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, I initially thought that he had snagged some underwater vegetation. However, it quickly became apparent that the prey was wriggling and squirming and was in fact alive. It looked a bit like a small snake or maybe some kind of marine worm, but several Facebook viewers later informed me that it was probably an American Eel (Anguilla rostrata).
The eel put up quite a struggle, but I believe that the grebe eventually subdued it and swallowed it. Unfortunately the grebe turned his back to me during the process, so I was not able to document the final phases of his efforts with my camera.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Unfortunate for the Ell, great catch for you 👏👏
Eel that is 😂😂
Amazing to watch this action, Mike, great captures. I’ve often wondered how much jaw power these birds have as they clamp onto wriggling prey.
Terrific capture, both by you and this brave little Grebe!!
Very nice Mike! Great images!