Common Loon

Overview

Common Loon (Gavia immer) is a species of Loons (Gaviidae) in the order Loons (Divers). A large diving bird with a dagger-like bill, black-and-white chequered back in summer and a haunting yodeling call; an expert underwater hunter of fish; breeds on northern lakes, winters at sea.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Gavia; binomial: Gavia immer; authority: (Brünnich, 1764). Typical size: 70-90cm. Average lifespan: 20-30 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Nearctic and the Palearctic. Non-breeding range: inshore waters: to nw Europe; Aleutian Is., s Baja California and Gulf of California (nw Mexico); w North Atlantic coast to Florida, Gulf of Mexico to ne Mexico.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

Formerly Great Northern Loon, an attempt at compromise.