Arctic Loon
Gavia arctica
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Gavia arctica
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Mass
~2 kg
Habitat
Wetlands and marshes
Diet
Fish and aquatic animals
How to recognize it
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.
Quick Facts
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.
How to recognize it
You might also see
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Gavia arctica Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Black-throated loon Encyclopedia article