Arctic Loon

The Arctic Loon, also widely known as the Black-throated Loon, is a medium-sized loon of northern Eurasia closely resembling the Pacific Loon of North America. Breeding adults show a smooth pale grey crown and nape, a glossy black throat bordered by fine white streaking, and a checkered black-and-white pattern on the back. A distinctive white patch on the flank, often visible as a pale flash at the waterline, helps separate it from the very similar Pacific Loon.

In winter it becomes plain grey-brown above and white below, with a clean demarcation line along the neck similar to other loon species.

Key field marks

• Breeding: pale grey head and nape, glossy black throat, checkered black-and-white back, and a white flank patch at the waterline
• Non-breeding: grey-brown upperparts and white underparts with a sharp neck contrast line
• Straight, moderately heavy bill

Similar species

• Pacific Loon is nearly identical but lacks the prominent white flank patch and occurs in a different range.
• Red-throated Loon is smaller with an upturned bill.
• Common Loon is larger and bulkier.

Habitat

Breeds on large, fish-rich freshwater lakes in boreal forest and tundra zones; winters on coastal marine waters.

Range

Breeds across northern Europe and Asia; winters along the coasts of Western Europe, the Mediterranean, and East Asia.

Migration

A regular migrant, moving from inland breeding lakes to coastal wintering waters each year.

Behavior

A strong swimmer and diver, typically seen singly or in small groups on breeding lakes, gathering in larger numbers at favored wintering sites along the coast.

Voice

Gives eerie wailing and yodeling calls on the breeding grounds; largely quiet in winter.

Feeding

Dives to catch small fish and aquatic invertebrates in both freshwater lakes and coastal seas.

Nesting

Builds a simple nest of vegetation at the edge of large lakes; typically lays 2 olive-brown eggs.