Yellow-billed Loon

The Yellow-billed Loon is the largest and most massively built of the world's five loon species, closely resembling the Common Loon but distinguished by its notably pale, ivory-yellow bill, which appears slightly upturned along the lower edge. Breeding adults show the same striking black head and checkerboard back pattern typical of large loons, but the pale bill stands out strongly against the dark head even at a distance.

It breeds in very low densities across remote Arctic tundra, making it one of the least commonly encountered loon species and a prized sighting for birders.

Key field marks

• Large, heavy-bodied loon with a thick neck
• Pale ivory-yellow bill, held at a slight upward angle, that appears massive and bright even from a distance
• Breeding: glossy black head, white-striped neck collar, checkered black-and-white back
• Non-breeding: retains the pale bill, a key clue distinguishing it from winter Common Loons

Similar species

• Common Loon is very similar in shape and pattern but has a darker, grey-black bill.
• Size and overall bulk are similar to the Common Loon, so bill color is the most reliable distinguishing feature.

Habitat

Breeds on large, remote tundra lakes in the high Arctic; winters on ice-free coastal marine waters.

Range

Breeds across the Arctic coasts of Alaska, northern Canada, and Siberia; winters along the North Pacific coast and parts of northern Europe.

Migration

Migrates from remote Arctic breeding lakes to coastal wintering areas, generally in smaller numbers and lower densities than other loon species.

Behavior

Typically found alone or in widely scattered pairs on large tundra lakes, being less social than some other loon species during the breeding season.

Voice

Gives haunting wails and yodels similar to the Common Loon, though generally heard less often due to its remote breeding range.

Feeding

Dives to catch fish and aquatic invertebrates in both freshwater and marine habitats.

Nesting

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