Common Loon
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NameCommon Loon
Common NameCommon Loon
Scientific NameGavia immer
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)137
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)4400
Plumage DetailsAdult breeding plumage features a glossy black head and neck, a distinctive white-striped 'necklace' on the throat, and a checkered black and white back. The belly is white, and the eyes are red. Juveniles and non-breeding adults are duller, with gray-brown upperparts and white underparts.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of distinctive and often haunting calls, including a mournful wail, a laughing tremolo, a yodel (often given by males), and hooting sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater lakes, coastal marine waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada and the northern United States, including Alaska. Winters along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America, and the Gulf of Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Black head and neck with white 'necklace' (breeding adult), Checkered black and white back (breeding adult), Red eyes (breeding adult), Dagger-like bill, Haunting vocalizations (wail, yodel, tremolo), Excellent diving ability
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 water, only coming ashore to nest.
