Red-throated Loon
Image: jack4rogers (cc-by-nc)
NameRed-throated Loon
Common NameRed-throated Loon
Scientific NameGavia stellata
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)105
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1300
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults display a gray head and neck, a distinctive red throat patch, and a dark back with fine white spotting. Non-breeding (winter) plumage is plainer, featuring a white throat and foreneck, dark gray-brown upperparts, and white underparts. The bird in the image appears to be in non-breeding plumage.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of calls including a distinctive, high-pitched, wailing 'aaoo-ah-aaoo' or 'kak-kak-kak' alarm call. They also produce growls, moans, and a cat-like mewing sound.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal waters, freshwater lakes, tundra ponds, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in Arctic and subarctic regions across North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters primarily along temperate and subtropical coastlines, including the Mediterranean, Black Sea, and coasts of the US and Japan.
Identifying Featuresthin, upturned bill, smallest loon species, red throat patch (breeding plumage), pale gray head and neck (breeding plumage), dark back with fine white spotting (breeding plumage), white throat and foreneck (non-breeding plumage)
Description
The Red-throated Loon is the smallest and most slender of the loon species, characterized by its relatively thin, often upturned bill. It is an agile swimmer and diver, frequently found in coastal waters during winter and on freshwater lakes and tundra ponds for breeding.
