Red-throated Loon
NameRed-throated Loon
Common NameRed-throated Loon
Scientific NameGavia stellata
FamilyGaviidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsIn breeding plumage, it features a pale grey head and neck, a distinctive reddish-chestnut throat patch, a dark grey-brown back finely speckled with white, and white underparts. The bill is slender and often appears slightly upturned.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of wails, yelps, and croaks, as well as a distinctive, high-pitched, cat-like mewing call, often given in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsarctic tundra, freshwater 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 coastal waters and large inland lakes.
Identifying FeaturesRed throat patch (breeding plumage), Slender, slightly upturned bill, Smallest loon species, Often holds head slightly elevated, Dark back with fine white speckling
Description
The Red-throated Loon is the smallest and most slender of the loon species, often seen swimming low in the water. It is an expert diver, primarily feeding on fish, and breeds on small freshwater ponds in the Arctic tundra.
