LOONS

Common Loon

- Large, long-bodied, low-swimming

- Black & White in breeding plumage with checkered back, in winter dark above and lighter below

- Thick, long, straight bill

- Found in bays & ocean edges

- Yodeling call, seldom heard on LI (usually only at breeding in northern lakes)

- Usually solitary except at migration

- Dives & swims underwater for food, propelled by feet

Red-throated Loon

- Smaller & more slender than Common Loon

- Carried head upward at angle

- Sharp, thin bill turned upwards

- Gray/brown overall, with white chest and

red patch on throat during breeding

- Yodeling (bubbling) sound only heard

during mating on artic breeding grounds

- Found on coastal waters & bays

- Usuallly solitary except during migration

For more information on Loons, go to ENature.com

Breeding Plumage

Winter Plumage

Breeding Plumage