Loon in the Sound

Sun, 21 Oct 2007 05:57:08 GMT

There are three Divers (Loons as they are called in North America) that it is possible to see around these waters out of the breeding season, These are Great Northern, Black-throated and Red-throated Diver.

Probably the most common would be Red-throated Diver and at this time of the year, they would appear in their winter-plumage as shown above. So it was not too surprising to discover a Red-throated Diver in Seil Sound on Wednesday afternoon.

I have included below pictures of Great Northern and Red-throated Diver to help with identification. As you can see identifying them is not easy, particularly at distance. The Red-throated Diver is slighter than the other two with a grey and white head and upturned bill which gives it a particular jizz.

The Black-throated Diver above has a distinctive white patch to the rear flank and has a more clear black and white head.

The Great Northern Diver is the daddy, looking chunkier and more powerful. It is lacking the smart contrasts of the Black-throated and is generally a more messier looking bird, without the rear white patch.

In the breeding season they all transform into more beautiful birds with stunning plumages.

Seil Natural History Group : General

Loon in the Sound