Common Name:
Common loon
Scientific Name:
Gavia immer
Unique Qualities:
Perhaps one of the most fascinating things about common loons is their haunting and variable voice. Loons are most vocal from mid-May to mid-June. They have four distinct calls, which they use to communicate with their families and other loons; these are the tremolo, wail, yodel and hoot.
Can be Seen:
Loons can be found throughout Canada and the northern United States. They migrate and winter along the east and west coasts of North America.
Likes to Hang Out:
Loons can be seen in freshwater lakes in summer and coastal zones in winter.
Likes to Eat:
Their diet consists of fish, crayfish, frogs, snails, salamanders, and leeches. Adult loons prefer fish to other food, and seem to favor perch, suckers, catfish, sunfish, smelt, and minnows.
Status:
Common loons are considered to be stable and/or increasing in the heart of their breeding range.
