The Common Loon is a long-bodied, duck-like, swimming bird with large webbed feet. The species can be identified by its straight, pointed bill and distinctive plumage. In winter, it is blackish above and whitish below, with a pale gray bill and a white throat. During the breeding season, its plumage shows a black and white checkered pattern on the back and necklace, along with a black head and bill.

Loons begin arriving to the Chesapeake Bay in September, migrating from their northern breeding grounds in Canada and the Great Lakes region of the United States. There, they nest and breed on land by the edge of woodland lakes and ponds.

By October and November, they can be found in the thousands along the open waters of the Bay, feeding on Atlantic Menhaden and other small fish. These water birds are efficient hunters, chasing after their prey in swift dives propelled by their powerful feet. Usually, they devour their prey underwater.

Loons prepare for the return flight to their northern breeding grounds by feasting throughout the fall. The loon’s eerie, tremulous night call has become an iconic sound of the Northern wild.