Species Spotlight!

The common loon, Gavia immer, is one of the most recognizable waterbirds in North America. Their breeding plumage features striking black and white patterns and their iconic call is known by most. Although they don’t breed in North Carolina, they are winter residents and transient visitors across the state. They can be found along the coast on the beach and in marshes, in piedmont lakes, and beside wetlands and rivers in the mountains. Aquatic habitats statewide provide the necessary habitat these birds along their migratory route. The loon featured in this photo was recently spotted in an inland saltwater marsh near the Outer Banks.