Common Loon

Common Loon

Gavia immer · Loons

The Common Loon's haunting wails and yodels echo across northern lakes, where it dives gracefully for fish. Its striking black and white plumage in summer gives way to a plainer gray in winter. Often seen alone or in pairs, it is a powerful swimmer and diver.

Migrant70-90 cmWailing songFish
1 call·first heard Aug 30·last 3h ago
When it's heardpeak 5a · summer
5a12p9p
How to know it
  • Large, duck-like bird with a thick neck and dagger-like bill.
  • Breeding adults have a black head, white-striped neck, and checkered back.
  • Often seen low in the water, diving for extended periods.

Often heard alongside

Birds Heard
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