Common Loon
(Gavia immer) M |
 |
RANGE: Breeds from western and central Alaska and the northern
Yukon east across Canada to southern Baffin Island and
Newfoundland south to northern California (at least formerly),
northwestern Montana, North Dakota, and northern Iowa east to
southern New England and Nova Scotia. Winters principally along
coast from Aleutian Islands south to California, from
Newfoundland south to Gulf Coast, and on lakes and bays near
coasts. During migration occurs on inland waters throughout most
of the United States.
STATUS: Locally common.
HABITAT: Breeds on or near freshwater lakes, ponds, and
occasionally riverbanks, from tundra south in either open or
wooded habitat. Territories may range from entire lakes of more
than 100 acres to bays of 15 to 20 acres.
SPECIAL HABITAT REQUIREMENTS: Bodies of water deep enough to
escape from enemies by diving and large enough that it can take
flight (up to 1/4 mile). Strongest nesting habitat
association along lake and pond shorelines and islands.
NEST: Nests on the ground as close to water as possible, on
islands, in sheltered places in coves, or on promontories or
headlands. May locate nests on bare soil, on floating or matted
vegetation, on muskrat houses or on rocks. Same nest site may be
used, presumably by same pair, year after year.
FOOD: Captures food during dives underwater. Generally eats
approximately 80 percent fish with some crustaceans, vegetable
matter, and insects, varying with locale.
REFERENCES: Adamus et al. 2001, Miller 1999, Palmer 1962, Shunk
2004, Smith 1981, Terres 1980, Vermeer 1973, Wahl in Farrand
1983a. |
