Common Loon in Canada: Features, Sightseeing & Subspecies

The Common Loon is a big, pretty bird with black and white feathers. It makes spooky sounds and mostly lives in lakes. They’re very good at swimming underwater to catch fish and they are frequently seen in Canada. The weird sounds they make are well-known in northern wild places.

The Common Loon is a bird many Canadians love. In summer, loons build nests in the north. The loon reminds many people of Canada’s wild places.

Physical Features and Characteristics

Following is a list of some physical characteristics and features that make the common loon an attractive bird;

Interesting Facts About Common Loon in Canada

Below are some of the most fascinating facts revealed for these attractive birds that can grab your attention as a visitor;

1. National Symbol

The Common Loon is displayed on the Canadian one-dollar coin known as the “loonie.”

2. Provincial Bird

Ontario has designated the Common Loon as its official provincial bird.

3. Distinctive Call

Loons are known for their haunting, yodel-like calls that echo across Canadian lakes.

4. Diving Masters

Common Loons can dive up to 60 meters deep and stay underwater for up to five minutes.

5. Bone Density

They can easily dive deep into water for catching their prey because of high bone density.

6. Nesting Habits

They build their nests close to the water’s edge and sometimes on floating vegetation.

7. Unique Anatomy

Their legs are positioned far back on their bodies, making them excellent swimmers but awkward on land.

8. Adaptability

They have a special gland that allows them to drink both fresh and salt water.

9. Ecological Indicator

The presence and health of loon populations are often used as indicators of the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.

10. Territorial Behavior

Loons are known to aggressively defend their territory, sometimes engaging in dramatic water-slapping displays.

Subspecies of Common Loon in Canada

There exist 5 sub species of these common loons in canada, which beautify the birds diversity of this country.

• Arctic Loon

  It is smaller than the Common Loon and possess a darker gray head compared to other loon species.

• Common Loon

  This specie has a distinctive black and white checkered pattern on its back. It displays a black head with a white necklace during breeding season.

• Pacific Loon

  This specie of loon carries a distinctly gray-colored nape at back of the neck. It is smaller than the Common Loon with a slimmer bill

• Re-throated Loon

  It is the smallest of the loon species found in Canada. It carries a unique upturned bill and reddish throat patch during breeding season.

• Yellow Billed Loon

  These are classified as largest of the loon species in Canada and have a distinctive pale yellow to ivory-colored bill.

Sightseeing of Common Loon in Canada

Here are some of the common sightseeing places of these Common loons in Canada;

 Pro Tip: They are mostly found around the fresh water lands and lake areas, so these areas should be targeted for capturing their image.

Ideal Seasons and Month to See Common Loons in Canada

Here is the best season to plan a visit for seeing these common loons;

Pro Tip: They are mostly spotted at morning and evening times because of their high activity during this time.