Common Loon

The iconic wail call of the Common Loon is one of the most evocative sounds in the natural world — a sound that travels far across the surface of a lake in the stillness of early morning or at dusk. Breeding birds are unmistakable in their summer plumage: bold black-and-white checkered back, solid black head with a shimmering iridescent sheen, and a distinctive white necklace pattern at the throat.

In winter plumage, birds are considerably plainer — dark above and white below — and are often encountered in coastal bays and harbors alongside other diving birds. The transition between summer and winter plumage happens gradually through autumn, and partially-molted birds can be encountered along migration routes.

Loons are built for diving, not walking — their legs are positioned so far back on the body that moving on land is extremely awkward, making nest placement at the very edge of the water a necessity rather than a preference. Underwater, they are supremely capable, using their feet to pursue fish at depths of up to 60 meters.