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Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica) — photo 1 of 4
© Robert Bergman Public domain

Loons

Arctic Loon

Gavia arctica

Year-round

How to recognize it

  • Grey head and hindneck, black throat patch

  • Fine white-and-black striping on the neck sides and upper chest

  • Dark back with white square spots on the mantle and scapulars

  • On the water sits fairly high; takes off only after a long run

About the species

The Arctic Loon looks calm on the water, but it takes off with effort and a long run, so you are more likely to notice it on a lake than in the air. In breeding plumage, the grey head and neck with the dark throat make it stand out, while away from breeding the look becomes plainer and more subdued.

Its voice is varied and loud, especially in spring and summer. On the water it gives a repeated “ku-ku-ii”, while in flight it makes harsh, rough calls; when disturbed, it may dive with a short cry and stay underwater for a long time.

For nesting it chooses large and medium-sized lakes, and on migration and in winter it stays by the sea and along ice-free coastal waters. It feeds mainly on fish, but while raising chicks it also takes crustaceans and other water invertebrates.

Where to find

  • On large city lakes or reservoirs with a long open stretch near the shore, where the Arctic Loon makes a short running start before diving and then seems to vanish almost completely.

  • Along canals, pond edges, and quiet embankments in winter, if the water stays ice-free — usually alone or in pairs, surfacing with fish close to the ice line.

  • In spring and autumn on big urban lakes or sheltered bays, especially on calm evenings, listen for a harsh, barking call and watch for the low silhouette with the neck stretched back.

  • Near stone embankments and bridges when fishing boats are working the open water, only the head, back, and an occasional noisy dive may show above the surface.

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Sources