Arctic Loon
Gavia arctica
Aves › Gaviiformes › Gaviidae › Gavia
Conservation status: least_concern
This migratory aquatic bird is known as the Arctic loon or black-throated diver. It breeds in freshwater lakes across northern Europe and Asia, and its diet consists of fish, sometimes supplemented by insects, molluscs, crustaceans, and plant matter.
How To Identify
They are robust, medium-to-large loons with a dark appearance—often appearing black or very deep gray—and have distinctive white markings on the throat and flanks.
Habitat
Arctic Loons breed on freshwater lakes and tundra ponds across the Arctic and subarctic regions, migrating to coastal marine waters during winter.
Behaviour
They produce haunting, yodeling calls during breeding season that echo across Arctic landscapes, with pairs performing elaborate synchronized swimming displays to strengthen pair bonds.
Native Range
The black-throated loon is found in the Northern Hemisphere primarily breeding in freshwater lakes in northern Europe and Asia.
Did You Know?
Arctic Loons can dive to depths exceeding 200 feet and stay underwater for several minutes while hunting fish, using their powerful hind-positioned legs as underwater propellers. Despite their aquatic mastery, they are nearly helpless on land due to their legs being positioned far back on their bodies.
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