red-throated loon

The red-throated loon (Gavia stellata) is a small diving bird distinguished by a thin, uptilted bill and a reddish throat patch during the breeding season. Unlike other loon species, it has a reddish-brown throat patch in summer and develops white speckling on its back in winter.12

Loons, in general, are almost entirely aquatic birds with strong, tapered bills, small pointed wings, and webbed feet. Their legs are set far back on their bodies, making walking awkward. They are capable of swimming long distances underwater and diving to significant depths by reducing buoyancy. Loons primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, and insects. They typically nest near the water's edge, laying two to three eggs. While most loons require large bodies of water for takeoff, the red-throated loon is an exception and can take flight from smaller expanses.2