Arctic Loon vs Common Loon
Gavia arctica compared with Gavia immer
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Arctic Loon | Common Loon |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Gavia arctica | Gavia immer |
| Order | Gaviiformes | Gaviiformes |
| Family | Gaviidae | Gaviidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 57.2 cm (22.5 in) | 73.0 cm (28.7 in) |
| Weight | 2955.0 g (104.23 oz) | 4898.333333333333 g (172.78 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | 1-3 | 1-3 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Arctic Loon
Least Concern
Common Loon
About These Birds
Arctic Loon
Arctic Loon, 58–73 cm, breeds across Eurasian boreal and Arctic lakes from Scotland to Siberia, wintering on European and Asian coasts. Black head with green iridescence, bold white flank patch, chequered black-and-white back in breeding plumage. Piscivore; dives to 60 m. Migratory.
Common Loon
Common Loon, 69–91 cm, is the iconic waterbird of North American wilderness lakes. Breeding plumage: iridescent black head, white necklace, chequered black-and-white back. Eerie wailing call. Piscivore; dives to 60 m. Winters on coastal seas. State bird of Minnesota; featured on Canadian dollar coin.