A photo of a Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata)
Red-throated Loon

Red-throated Loon

Gavia stellata

The red-throated loon (North America) or red-throated diver (Britain and Ireland) (Gavia stellata) is a migratory aquatic bird found in the northern hemisphere. The most widely distributed member of the loon or diver family, it breeds primarily in Arctic regions, and winters in northern coastal waters. Ranging from in length, the red-throated loon is the smallest and lightest of the world's loons. In winter, it is a nondescript bird, greyish above fading to white below. During the breeding season, it acquires the distinctive reddish throat patch which is the basis for its common name. Fish form the bulk of its diet, though amphibians, invertebrates, and plant material are sometimes eaten as well. A monogamous species, red-throated loons form long-term pair bonds. Both members of the pair help to build the nest, incubate the eggs (generally two per clutch), and feed the hatched young. The red-throated loon has a large global population and a significant global range, though some populations are declining. Oil spills, habitat degradation, pollution, and fishing nets are among the major threats this species faces. Natural predators—including various gull species, and both red and Arctic foxes, will take eggs and young. The species is protected by international treaties.
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Red-throated Loons on Birda

Photos

Sightings

A map showing the sighting location
🦢
Sophie Dorman
Saturday 25 Mar 2023 - 2:38pm
United Kingdom
A map showing the sighting location
🐧
Joel Tragen
Friday 24 Mar 2023 - 2:03pm
United Kingdom
A photo of a Red-throated Diver photographed in  United Kingdom
🦈
Victoria P
Monday 20 Mar 2023 - 2:08pm
United Kingdom
A map showing the sighting location
🦢
Mark Bissett
Monday 13 Mar 2023 - 4:30pm
Ireland
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