A small loon. Found across the Arctic.
§ Quick facts
§ Encyclopedia
The red-throated loon or red-throated diver is a migratory aquatic bird found in the Northern Hemisphere. The most widely distributed member of the loon or diver family, it breeds primarily in Arctic regions, and it winters in northern coastal waters. Ranging from 55 to 67 centimetres in length, the red-throated loon is the smallest and lightest of the world's loons. In winter, it is a nondescript bird, greyish above, fading to white below. During the breeding season, it acquires the distinctive reddish throat patch, which is the basis for its common name. Fish form the bulk of its diet, though amphibians, invertebrates, and plant material are sometimes eaten as well. A monogamous species, red-throated loons form long-term pair bonds. Both members of the pair help to build the nest, incubate the eggs, and feed the hatched young.
Source: Wikipedia — Red-throated loon Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
§ Identification
Field marks. Slim loon with a thin bill characteristically tilted upward and a slender neck. Breeding birds have a gray head and a brick-red throat patch; winter birds very pale with a white face and finely speckled back.
Similar species. Other loons hold the bill level and are bulkier; the uptilted thin bill and pale winter face mark Red-throated.
Voice. On the breeding grounds, wailing moans and a rapid cackling 'kak-kak-kak'.
§ Diet & behavior
Diet. Fish, aquatic invertebrates caught by foot-propelled dives.
Behavior. The smallest and most slender loon; the only loon that can take flight directly from land or small pools, and the most marine in winter.
§ Range
Arctic and northern coasts
§ Habitat
Coastal waters
§ Threats
Climate change.
§ Conservation status
According to the IUCN Red List, the red-throated loon is currently classified as Least Concern.
§ What helps
Support Arctic conservation.
§ Further reading
- Wikipedia — Red-throated loon
- www.allaboutbirds.org — authoritative profile of Gavia stellata
- IUCN Red List — search for Gavia stellata
- GBIF occurrence records
- Encyclopedia of Life — Gavia stellata
§ Sources cited
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — All About Birds
- National Audubon Society
- iNaturalist
- IUCN Red List
