Common Loon
Common Loon
65
16 hours ago
A large, iconic waterbird known for its haunting, yodeling calls echoing across northern lakes. It boasts striking black and white checkerboard plumage in summer and is an expert fish-hunter.
Where to spot
Breeds on large freshwater lakes and reservoirs across northern North America, Greenland, and Iceland. Winters along coastal waters of North America and Europe, and southern inland lakes.
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic calls on northern lakes, a key identifier. Look for its large size, distinct head shape, and powerful dives. In winter, identify by its heavy bill and often a straight neck posture.
When to spot
Breeding plumage (distinctive black and white) is seen in summer on freshwater lakes. Winter plumage (dark grey upperparts, white underparts) is present along coasts and larger unfrozen lakes from autumn to spring.
Where to spot
Breeds on large freshwater lakes and reservoirs across northern North America, Greenland, and Iceland. Winters along coastal waters of North America and Europe, and southern inland lakes.
How to spot
Listen for its characteristic calls on northern lakes, a key identifier. Look for its large size, distinct head shape, and powerful dives. In winter, identify by its heavy bill and often a straight neck posture.
When to spot
Breeding plumage (distinctive black and white) is seen in summer on freshwater lakes. Winter plumage (dark grey upperparts, white underparts) is present along coasts and larger unfrozen lakes from autumn to spring.
Credits:
Door John Picken from Chicago, USA - LoonUploaded by snowmanradio, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15910636
Common Loons have solid bones, making them less buoyant than many birds, allowing them to dive deeper and stay submerged longer. They can also adjust their buoyancy by expelling air from their feathers.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 18430 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 16 hours ago
Monthly observations
3 observations
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