Common Loon
NameCommon Loon
Common NameCommon Loon
Scientific NameGavia immer
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)137
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)4400
Plumage DetailsAdults in breeding plumage have a black head and neck with a distinctive white-striped 'necklace' pattern. The back is checkered black and white, and the underparts are white. The bill is dark and dagger-like. Non-breeding plumage is duller, mostly gray-brown above and white below.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its iconic and varied vocalizations, including a mournful wail, a laughing tremolo, and a complex yodel. These calls are often heard across northern lakes, especially at dawn and dusk.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, coastal waters, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada and the northern United States, including Alaska, and in Greenland and Iceland. Winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, and in parts of Europe.
Identifying Featureslarge size, black head and neck with white necklace, checkered black and white back, dagger-like bill, low-riding profile on water, distinctive calls
Description
The Common Loon is a large, diving waterbird known for its striking black and white breeding plumage and haunting calls. It is an expert swimmer and diver, spending most of its life on the water, only coming ashore to nest. This species is often seen on freshwater lakes during breeding season and coastal waters in winter.
