Arctic Loon
by Tucker
The Arctic Loon can be found in western and central arctic areas of North America. It is 23" - 29" long. In the summer their appearance is similar to a Common Loon but it has a light gray head and neck instead. Their voice is largely silent except on breeding grounds, where a barking "caw wow" is uttered. Also a variety of wailing and honking notes. Their habitat is lakes in woods, swampy areas or on the tundra. They spend their winters along the seacoast. They lay two deep brown eggs in a nest near water or shore or inlet. The loon is one of the few birds that has solid bones instead of hollow. Their food includes fish, crustaceans, and insects. The Arctic Loon is an expert diver. The loon's young rides on the back of its mother.
This bird was
recovered from Summit Lake on Thompson Pass after it was shot
by a poacher. Believe it or not, Mr. Larson had to swim out in
the freezing cold lake to get it!!
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