Where’s Wildlife · Bird Field Guide
Gavia immer
Pronounced (approx.): GAY-vee-uh IM-er
A powerful diving bird with a dagger-shaped bill and a dramatic checkered back in breeding plumage. [1]
Select the main image to browse all 11 photographs.
NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA
Scan quiet lakes for a low-floating bird that repeatedly disappears beneath the surface. Leave space around pairs and chicks. [1]
Use the range map for seasonal context and the observation map to explore reported sightings near you.
Listen for rhythm and tone, then compare what you hear with the bird’s appearance and habitat.
Common Mergansers have slimmer, often reddish bills. Other loons can be similar, so compare bill size, head shape, and seasonal plumage. [1]
Photographs © Where’s Wildlife. Select any image to open the gallery.
Showing 8 of 11 photographs.
Loons chase aquatic prey underwater. Their legs sit far back on the body, helping with swimming but making travel on land awkward. Nest sites are close to the water so adults can enter and leave readily. [2]
Explore reported observations and photographs on iNaturalist. Zoom to your area and use date filters to investigate seasonal sightings.
Reported sightings are not a complete range map. A lack of records does not necessarily mean the species is absent.
Choose a photograph and name three clues you can see. Compare another view to learn how angle, age, season, and lighting change the bird’s appearance.