Species Profile
Arctic Loon
Gavia arctica
Arctic Loon
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernAlso known as: Black-throated Loon, Black-throated Diver
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Appearance
During the breeding season, the Arctic Lon boasts striking black-and-white plumage. Its head and neck are glossy black, offset by distinctive white stripes on the neck and a checkerboard pattern on the back. The bird's dagger-like bill is jet black, complementing its overall striking appearance.
In winter, the plumage becomes duller, with the upper parts turning greyish-brown and the underparts white. Juveniles resemble winter adults but have a more mottled appearance on the back and wings.
Identification & Characteristics
Colors
- Primary
- Black
- Secondary
- Grey
- Beak
- Black
- Legs
- Black
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Arctic Loons breed across the northern reaches of North America, Europe, and Asia, favouring large, deep freshwater lakes in the boreal forest and tundra regions. These birds require clear waters for fishing and undisturbed shorelines for nesting.
During winter, they migrate to coastal waters, with significant populations found along the coasts of the UK, Norway, and other parts of northern Europe. In North America, they winter along Pacific and Atlantic coasts, from Alaska to California and Newfoundland to Florida.
Distribution
Diet
Arctic Loons primarily feed on fish, diving to depths of up to 30 meters to catch their prey. Their diet includes a variety of small to medium-sized fish, such as herring, cod, and trout.
They also consume crustaceans, molluscs, and aquatic insects, especially during the breeding season when inland.
Behaviour
Arctic Loons are exceptional divers, capable of staying submerged for up to a minute while hunting fish. On land, they move awkwardly because their legs are positioned far back on their bodies, an adaptation for efficient swimming.
During the breeding season, pairs engage in elaborate courtship displays, including synchronised swimming and haunting duets.
Calls & Sounds
The Arctic Loon's call is a haunting, yodel-like wail that echoes across northern lakes. Their vocalisations include a series of loud, mournful 'oooo-AH-oooo' calls, often given in duets between pairs.
They may emit sharp, barking sounds during territorial disputes, adding to their diverse vocal repertoire.
Nesting & Breeding
Arctic Loons form monogamous pairs and often return to the same breeding site year after year. The breeding season typically begins in May or June, coinciding with the thaw of northern lakes.
Nests are built close to the water's edge, often on small islands or hummocks. The nest is a simple scrape lined with vegetation, where the female lays 1-2 olive-brown eggs with dark spots.
Both parents incubate the eggs for about 28-30 days. Chicks are precocial, able to swim shortly after hatching, but are often seen riding on their parents' backs. Fledging occurs after 60-65 days, with the young becoming independent around 3-4 months of age.
Conservation
While currently listed as Least Concern, Arctic Loons face threats from oil spills, fishing net entanglement, and habitat degradation. Climate change poses a significant long-term risk, potentially altering their breeding habitats and prey availability.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting breeding sites and migratory stopover points.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Arctic Loons on large, deep lakes in northern regions during summer.
- In winter, scan coastal waters, especially in the UK and along the North Sea coast.
- Listen for their distinctive yodelling call, which carries far across the water.
- Observe their diving behaviour, noting the smooth entry into the water with barely a splash.
Did You Know?
- Arctic Loons can live for over 30 years in the wild, making them one of the longer-lived waterbird species.
- They swallow small pebbles to aid digestion, which helps grind up fish bones in their gizzards.
- Despite their name, Arctic Loons also breed in subarctic and even temperate regions, showcasing their adaptability to various climates.
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