Common Loon
Image: lpattersonphd (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Loon
Common NameCommon Loon
Scientific NameGavia immer
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)137
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)4500
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a black head and neck, a white 'necklace' of stripes, a black and white checkered back, and a white belly. Non-breeding plumage is duller, with a gray-brown back and a white throat and belly.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive and haunting vocalizations, including a mournful wail, a laughing tremolo, and a complex yodel, often heard echoing across northern lakes.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, rivers, coastal marine waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada, Alaska, the northern United States, Greenland, and Iceland. Winters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America, and coastal Europe.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, sleek diving bird, Distinctive black and white breeding plumage (checkered back, striped neck), Haunting calls (wail, tremolo, yodel), Often seen low on the water, Dagger-like bill
Description
The Common Loon is a large, diving water bird known for its striking black and white breeding plumage and haunting calls. It spends its summers on large freshwater lakes and winters along coastal marine waters, primarily feeding on fish.
