Common Loon
Image: AW Stadnyk (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Loon
Common NameCommon Loon
Scientific NameGavia immer
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)137
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)3950
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a black head and neck, a white-striped collar, a checkered black and white back, and a white belly. Non-breeding plumage, as seen in the image, is duller with a gray-brown back, white throat and belly, and a paler bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of distinctive calls including a mournful wail, a laughing tremolo, and a complex yodel, often heard echoing across northern lakes.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, large rivers, coastal marine waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Iceland, and parts of the northern United States. Winters along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of North America, and coastal Europe.
Identifying Featureslarge size, sleek body, dagger-like bill, expert diving ability, distinctive calls, black and white breeding plumage, rides low in the water
Description
A large, heavy-bodied diving water bird, the Common Loon is known for its striking black and white breeding plumage and haunting calls. It spends most of its life on water, expertly diving to catch fish.
