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Gavia immer
This bird is a very large member of the loon family of birds. They are predominantly black with white throat patch and spots on their wings. They are equipped with large bills which they use to capture fish, their favorite prey, and webbed feet. Young are browner with less well-defined spots.
Lakes and wetlands. In North America, they summer in the boreal forest regions and winter near Florida and the Gulf Coast.
Spotted on Jul 31, 2012
Submitted on Aug 3, 2012
5 Comments
Rob, I know what you mean. Those calls literally say home, don't they? Ely is a fascinating town. Love to stroll those streets and just stop and talk to people.
Fantastic Gordon! When I lived in Ontario, we used to go to a friend's cottage on Lake Michigan during the summer... one of the everlasting memories I have is going to sit by the lakeside at sunset and listening to the loons calling. What beautiful birds, great spotting!
It's one of those few places in the US that one can look south into Canada. I'm not sure why it is listing a pin located in the US as being in Ontario, but it may have something to do with the closest available address or something.
Thanks for the comment. Loons are among my favorite birds. So many times I've woken in the night while on wilderness canoe trips and listened to loons calling on the lake in the dark. The north woods wouldn't be the same without them.
Amazing Gordon! I love these beauties! I've only seen one my whole life, and it was too far away for a decent photo. Great capture!