Red-throated Loon

The Red-throated Loon, known as the Red-throated Diver in Britain and Ireland, is the smallest and lightest member of the loon family. This aquatic bird is characterized by its striking breeding plumage, which includes a dark grey head and neck with a distinctive triangular red throat patch. In contrast, its non-breeding plumage is more subdued, with greyish tones above and white below, and a speckled back that inspired its scientific name, Gavia stellata.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Red-throated Loon, look for its sharp, straight bill often held at an uptilted angle, and its red eyes. In flight, it presents a hunchbacked profile with a quick, deep wingbeat. The red throat patch is a clear identifier during the breeding season, while the speckled back is a key feature in winter.

Habitat

The Red-throated Loon favors coastal tundra for breeding, often on small lakes. It is unique among loons for its use of very small freshwater lakes as breeding sites, while it prefers larger lakes or the sea for feeding.

Distribution

This migratory species breeds in the Arctic regions of northern Eurasia and North America and winters in northern coastal waters. It is the most widely distributed loon, with a presence in various countries and occasionally recorded as a vagrant in more southern locales.

Behaviour

The Red-throated Loon is known for its agility in water, though it is somewhat awkward on land. It is capable of taking off from land and small bodies of water, a trait not shared by other loon species. It migrates diurnally, either alone or in loose groups, and is a strong flier.

Song & Calls

The Red-throated Loon has a repertoire of calls including a rapid goose-like cackle in flight, a short croaking bark as a warning, and a low-pitched moaning for contact between mates and offspring. Its long call, often a duet between mates, is a pulsed cooing that rises and falls in pitch.

Breeding

A monogamous species, the Red-throated Loon forms long-term pair bonds. Both partners contribute to nest building, incubation, and feeding of the young. The nest is typically a scrape near water, and the female usually lays two eggs.

Similar Species

The Red-throated Loon can be confused with the Black-throated Loon or the Great Crested Grebe under certain conditions. However, it can be distinguished by more white on the head and neck and a different flank pattern.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily piscivorous, the Red-throated Loon also consumes amphibians, invertebrates, and occasionally plant material. It captures prey underwater by seizing rather than spearing. Young loons are initially fed aquatic invertebrates before transitioning to fish.

Conservation status

The Red-throated Loon is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a large global population and significant range. However, some populations are in decline due to threats such as oil spills, habitat degradation, pollution, and fishing nets. It is protected by international treaties.