The bird that looks like a loon is the grebe, known for its similar body shape and aquatic habits, often found in freshwater lakes and ponds.
Loons are iconic waterbirds known for their striking black-and-white plumage and haunting calls. However, several other birds share similar characteristics, making identification challenging for birdwatchers. This guide will help you distinguish loons from their lookalikes with key identification tips.
Common Birds Mistaken for Loons
Several diving birds are frequently confused with loons due to their similar body shapes and behaviors. Here are the most common species:
1. Grebes
Grebes are the birds most often mistaken for loons. Both species are excellent divers with feet positioned far back on their bodies. However, there are distinct differences:
- Size: Grebes are significantly smaller than loons
- Bill: Grebes have shorter, triangular bills compared to loons’ dagger-like bills
- Neck: Grebes hold their necks in an S-curve while swimming
- Plumage: Most grebes have lighter coloration than loons
Western Grebes, in particular, have much longer necks than loons and needlelike yellowish bills. For optimal viewing of these subtle differences, consider using long-range binoculars for bird watching.
2. Double-crested Cormorants
Cormorants share the loon’s diving behavior but have distinct features:
| Feature | Loon | Cormorant |
|---|---|---|
| Bill | Black, dagger-like | Orange-yellow, hooked tip |
| Posture | Sits low in water | Often perches with wings spread |
| Plumage | Black-and-white checkered back | Uniformly dark brown/black |
3. Common Mergansers
These diving ducks are sometimes confused with loons, especially in breeding plumage:
- Male mergansers have white bodies with dark green heads
- Females have gray bodies with burnt orange heads
- Both sexes show white wing patches in flight (loons don’t)
- Mergansers have thin, hooked orange bills
Key Identification Features of Loons
To accurately identify loons, focus on these distinctive characteristics:
Physical Features
- Size: Large-bodied with a flat head and hefty build
- Bill: Long, black, dagger-shaped (gray in winter)
- Feet: Positioned far back, making walking difficult
- Breeding plumage: Black-and-white striped collar and checkerboard back
- Nonbreeding plumage: Brownish above with pale partial collar
Behavioral Traits
- Sits very low in the water
- Dives frequently to catch fish
- Cannot stand upright on land
- Flies with steady, shallow wingbeats
- Chicks often ride on adults’ backs
For observing these behaviors at a distance, long-range viewing binoculars can be invaluable.
Regional Variations and Similar Species
Different loon species across North America have their own unique lookalikes:
Pacific Loon vs. Common Loon
- Pacific Loons are smaller with thinner bills
- Breeding Pacific Loons have vertical neck barring (not stripes)
- In winter, Pacific Loons show a straight gray-white neck division
Red-throated Loon vs. Common Loon
- Red-throated Loons are smaller with thinner bills
- They often hold their bills pointed upward
- Nonbreeding birds show more white on the face
Habitat and Seasonal Considerations
Understanding where and when to find these birds can aid identification:
Breeding Season
Loons breed on clear lakes across northern North America. During this time (May-August), they’re in their distinctive black-and-white plumage. According to Maine Audubon, this is when they’re most often confused with mergansers and cormorants.
Winter Season
In winter, loons migrate to coastal areas where they might be confused with:
- Horned Grebes
- Red-necked Grebes
- Winter-plumage cormorants
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology notes that winter loons lose their striking patterns, becoming more uniformly gray-brown above and white below.
Vocalizations: The Loon’s Distinctive Call
One of the most reliable ways to identify loons is by their calls:
- Wail: A long, rising call that sounds mournful
- Tremolo: A laughing or crazy-sounding call
- Yodel: A complex call made by males to defend territory
No other North American waterbird produces these distinctive vocalizations. However, in New Zealand, some observers report hearing birds with similar calls, as noted in New Zealand Birds Online forums.
Conservation Status and Viewing Tips
Loons face several conservation challenges:
- Habitat loss from shoreline development
- Water pollution affecting fish populations
- Lead poisoning from fishing tackle
- Disturbance from watercraft
When observing loons or similar birds:
- Maintain a respectful distance
- Use binoculars or spotting scopes
- Avoid approaching nesting areas
- Follow local wildlife viewing guidelines
