A common loon in winter plumage photographed at International Bird Rescue in San Pedro, California
A common loon in winter plumage photographed at International Bird Rescue in San Pedro, California
Photograph by Joel Sartore, National Geographic Photo Ark

Common Loon

Common Name:
Common Loon
Scientific Name:
Gavia immer
Type:
Birds
Diet:
Carnivore
Group Name:
Flock
Average Life Span In The Wild:
30 years
Size:
2 to 3 feet
Weight:
6.5 to 12 pounds
IUCN Red List Status:
Least concern
Current Population Trend:
Decreasing

Named for their clumsy, awkward appearance when walking on land, common loons are migratory birds which breed in forested lakes and large ponds in northern North America and parts of Greenland and Iceland. They winter all along North America’s Pacific and Atlantic coasts as well as in Europe and Iceland.

Vocalizations

Their unusual cries, which vary from wails to tremolos to yodels, are distinct to individuals and can be heard at great distances. Loon cries are most prevalent during breeding season as pairs aggressively defend their territories.

Characteristics

Loons have striking red eyes, black heads and necks, and white striping, checkering, and spotting on their backs. They grow up to three feet in length and weigh up to 12 pounds, feeding largely on fish and invertebrates.

Predators

Their predators are diverse and can strike from all directions as they include birds like gulls, ravens, and crows, fish such as pike, and land mammals such as raccoons, weasels, and skunks.

Reproduction and Population

They nest lakeside and incubate their eggs for 27 to 30 days. Hatchlings leave the nest on their first day and are able to fly in about 11 weeks.

There are many Native American legends about common loons. And to this day the Inuit legally hunt over 4,500 a year for subsistence. Loon populations are currently stable, but a number of threats loom, including human encroachment and pollution.

This photo was submitted to Your Shot, our photo community on Instagram. Follow us on Instagram at @natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the latest submissions and news about the community.
This photo was submitted to Your Shot, our photo community on Instagram. Follow us on Instagram at @natgeoyourshot or visit us at natgeo.com/yourshot for the latest submissions and news about the community.
Photograph by Sandy Snide, National Geographic Your Shot

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