Red-throated Loon
Image: Stephen John Davies (cc-by-nc)
NameRed-throated Loon
Common NameRed-throated Loon
Scientific NameGavia stellata
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1850
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a grey head and neck, a prominent red throat patch, and a dark grey-brown back with fine white streaking on the hindneck. Non-breeding (winter) plumage is duller, with a pale grey-brown back, white throat and foreneck, and a pale bill. The image shows a bird in flight, likely in non-breeding plumage, with a pale throat and darker upperparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive, wailing 'aaoo-ugh' call, often given in flight, as well as various 'kak-kak-kak' alarm calls and a cat-like mewing sound.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsarctic tundra, freshwater lakes, coastal marine waters
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the circumpolar Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters primarily along temperate coastal waters and large inland lakes.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest loon species, Red throat patch (breeding plumage), Often holds bill slightly upturned, Slender body and rapid wingbeats in flight, Pale throat and finely speckled back in non-breeding plumage
Description
The Red-throated Loon is the smallest and most slender of the loon species, known for its distinctive red throat patch during breeding season. It is an agile flyer, often seen with its feet trailing behind its body, and dives expertly for fish.
