ExploreBirds

Pacific Loon

Gavia pacifica

The Pacific Loon is a beautiful bird that loves to swim in cold waters. It has a long, pointed beak and can dive deep to catch fish. These birds are known for their lovely calls that sound like laughter!

Habitat: Coastal areas

Appearance

The Pacific Loon has a sleek, torpedo-shaped body. In summer, it features a grey head, black throat with fine white stripes, and a striking black-and-white checkered back. Its white belly contrasts with its dark upperparts, making it distinct from other loon species.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderGaviiformesFamilyGaviidaeGenusGavia
Pacific Loon
feathered trait badgewebbed_feet trait badgesinging trait badgepiscivorous trait badge
Pacific Loon

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Baby loons can swim and dive just hours after hatching!

Pacific Loons build their nests right at the water's edge.

Their strong, spear-like beak helps them catch slippery fish.

They can sink almost completely underwater, like a submarine!

Special abilities

Ability

Deep Diver

Pacific Loons can hold their breath for over a minute to chase fish deep underwater.

Ability

Heavy Bones

Pacific Loons have denser bones than other birds, which helps them sink and stay submerged easily.

Ability

Underwater Vision

They have special eyelids that act like goggles, helping them see clearly while hunting underwater.

Measurements & details

Length
58-74 cm
Wingspan
110-128 cm
Weight
1-2.5 kg
Lifespan
15-20 years
Top Speed
100 km/h
Clutch Size
1-2
Incubation
24-29 days
Migration Distance
4000 km

Diet & Feeding

They mainly eat fish, chasing them underwater with amazing speed and skill.

Primary Foods

  • Herring
  • Capelin
  • Sandlance
  • Pollock
  • Crustaceans

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 try to touch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Pacific Loon?

58-74 cm

What is Pacific Loon's wingspan?

110-128 cm

How much does Pacific Loon weigh?

1-2.5 kg

How long does Pacific Loon live?

15-20 years

How fast can Pacific Loon move?

100 km/h

What does Pacific Loon eat?

They mainly eat fish, chasing them underwater with amazing speed and skill.

Where is Pacific Loon usually found?

Coastal areas

How does Pacific Loon hunt?

Pursuit

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