The Common Loon, or Great Northern Diver, is a large species of diving bird. These duck-like birds breed in Canada, parts of the northern United States, Greenland, Alaska, and Iceland. It winters on a wider range in Northern Europe and the British Isles, as well as coastal areas in North America.
Common Loons are specialist fishers and catch their prey underwater, diving as deep as 200 feet (60 meters). They make nests of dirt and vegetation, usually close to or on the water. Chicks are semi-precocial, able to leave the nest within a day of hatching. Young birds often brood on the back of a parent, which is super-cute. The Common Loon is the state bird of Minnesota.
The natural range of the Common Loon is quite large and as of September 2014 the conservation status for this species is Least Concern.
The American Birding Association (ABA) has selected the Common Loon as its Bird of the Year for 2025. The ABA's Bird of the Year program aims to inspire and educate birding enthusiasts by spotlighting a particular species annually. The program began in 2011 with the Read more »
The Common Loon, also known as the Great Northern Diver, is a sight to behold for bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike. With its distinctive black-and-white plumage, piercing red eyes, and haunting calls that echo across northern lakes, it’s no wonder that this bird has captured the... Read more »
This week's featured t-shirt design is our Birdorable Common Loon. Loons are currently migrating north and passing through northern Illinois, where we live. This time of year, local bird clubs organize "Looney trips" where birders drive from lake to lake to spot these beautiful birds. Have you... Read more »
