Red-throated Loon

The Red-throated Loon is the smallest member of the loon family, with a slender build, thin neck, and a fine, slightly upturned bill. In breeding plumage it shows a pale grey head, a striking brick-red throat patch, and fine black-and-white streaking down the back of the neck, quite different from the bold checkerboard back patterns of larger loons. In winter it becomes largely grey above and white below, appearing paler overall than other loon species.

Because its legs are set even farther back than in other loons, it is the most agile in the air among loons and, unusually, can take off directly from land or small ponds without a long running start.

Key field marks

• Small size and slim build with a thin, slightly upturned bill
• Breeding: pale grey head, wine-red throat patch, streaked neck
• Non-breeding: pale grey-brown above, extensive white on the face and foreneck, giving a paler-headed look than other loons
• Habitually holds the bill angled upward

Similar species

• Pacific Loon and Arctic Loon are larger, straighter-billed, and darker-headed in winter.
• Common Loon is much bulkier with a heavier, straight bill.
• The upward-tilted bill posture is a useful clue even at a distance.

Habitat

Breeds on small tundra pools and lakes, often ones too small to support other loon species; winters mainly on sheltered coastal seas and bays.

Range

Circumpolar breeder across the high Arctic of North America, Europe, and Asia; winters along temperate coastlines to the south.

Migration

A long-distance migrant, moving from Arctic breeding pools to milder coastal wintering waters.

Behavior

Often commutes between separate small breeding pools and larger feeding lakes or the sea, flying with rapid, shallow wingbeats.

Voice

Gives a distinctive wailing, goose-like call in flight and a rising and falling moaning duet near the nest.

Feeding

Dives for small fish and aquatic invertebrates, often foraging in different water bodies than where it nests.

Nesting

Builds a simple nest at the water's edge on small tundra pools; typically lays 2 olive-brown eggs.