Gaviidae (Loons)
Order Gaviiformes
5 species in 1 genus

Size: Between 53 cm (Red-throated Diver, Gavia stellata) and 91 cm (White-billed Diver, Gavia adamsii).

Distribution: Northern hemisphere (Nearctic, Palearctic and Oriental regions). All species are migratory, moving from the northernmost areas of the range to the southernmost ones during winter.

Habitat: Fresh water lakes during breeding season and coastal areas during wintering.

Feeding: Mainly fish. Also molluscs, amphibians and aquatic insects.

Breeding: The nest is an accumulation of vegetal material very close to the water. 2 eggs. Incubation 24-29 days. Nestling period 1-3 days.

Threat status: No threatened species. [+info]
2 / 5 species available
Red-throated Loon
Gavia stellata
Common Loon
Gavia immer