Red-throated Loon
NameRed-throated Loon
Common NameRed-throated Loon
Scientific NameGavia stellata
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1600
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, adults have a grey head and neck, a prominent reddish-chestnut throat patch, a dark back with fine white speckling, and white underparts. The bill is slender and often appears slightly upturned. Winter plumage is plainer, lacking the red throat, with a dark crown and nape contrasting with a white face and throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a distinctive, somewhat cat-like wail, a series of rapid, high-pitched yelps, and a low, guttural 'arrr-arrr-arrr' call. They are generally more vocal on their breeding grounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatstundra ponds, boreal lakes, coastal marine waters, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in circumpolar Arctic and subarctic regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters along temperate coasts of North America, Europe, and Asia, extending south to areas like the Mediterranean and southern Japan.
Identifying FeaturesRed throat patch (breeding plumage), Slender, often upturned bill, Grey head and neck (breeding plumage), Relatively small size compared to other loons, Distinctive flight profile with head and neck drooping
Description
The Red-throated Loon is a small, elegant diving waterbird. It breeds on freshwater ponds in the Arctic and subarctic, migrating to coastal marine waters for winter. Known for its distinctive red throat patch in breeding plumage, it is an agile swimmer and diver.
