ExploreBirds

Arctic Loon

Gavia arctica

The Arctic Loon is a beautiful bird that loves to swim in cold waters. It has a striking black and white pattern and can dive deep to catch fish. These birds are known for their lovely, haunting calls.

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Arctic Loon has a striking black head and neck, a grey back, and a crisp white belly. Its most distinctive feature is the finely striped black-and-white patch on the sides of its neck, and it also sports bright red eyes.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderGaviiformesFamilyGaviidaeGenusGavia
Arctic Loon
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesocial trait badgesinging trait badge
Arctic Loon

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Arctic Loons need a long 'runway' on the water to take off into flight due to their heavy bones.

Baby loons often ride on their parents' backs to stay warm and safe from predators.

Their haunting wails and yodels can be heard for miles across the vast open waters.

Their legs are set far back on their body, making them clumsy on land but perfect for swimming!

Special abilities

Ability

Super Swimmer

Arctic Loons can dive deep underwater because their powerful webbed feet act like propellers, helping them swim incredibly fast.

Ability

Deep Diver

Arctic Loons have dense bones that help them sink quickly and dive up to 60 meters to catch fish.

Ability

Saltwater Drinker

Arctic Loons have special salt glands that allow them to drink ocean water, which helps them stay hydrated in coastal areas.

Measurements & details

Length
60-75 cm
Wingspan
110-130 cm
Weight
1.3-3.4 kg
Lifespan
15-20 years
Top Speed
120 km/h
Clutch Size
1-2
Incubation
27-29 days
Migration Distance
3500 km

Diet & Feeding

Arctic Loons are expert fish-eaters, catching their meals by diving deep in the water!

Age differences: Young chicks start with small invertebrates before transitioning to fish as they grow.

Primary Foods

  • herring
  • cod
  • perch
  • crustaceans
  • aquatic insects

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Always watch birds from a distance and don't disturb their nests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Arctic Loon?

60-75 cm

What is Arctic Loon's wingspan?

110-130 cm

How much does Arctic Loon weigh?

1.3-3.4 kg

How long does Arctic Loon live?

15-20 years

How fast can Arctic Loon move?

120 km/h

What does Arctic Loon eat?

Arctic Loons are expert fish-eaters, catching their meals by diving deep in the water!

Where is Arctic Loon usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Arctic Loon hunt?

Pursuit

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