Red-throated Loon
Also called "Heike bird".
| Scientific name | Gavia stellata |
| English name | Red-throated Loon |
| Japanese name | 阿比 |
| Classification | Aves |
| Classification details | Gaviiformes Gaviidae |
| Full length | about 60cm |
| Distribution | North Pacific and North Atlantic coasts. In Japan, they fly north of Kyushu. |
Characteristics
A waterfowl about the size of a spot-billed duck. It looks a little longer and slender than ducks, and its legs are attached to the back of its body.
The body color is gray with dark brown wings and white from the throat to the belly. The iris is reddish. The beak is elongated and slightly curved upwards.
Ecology
In Japan, it can be seen on the coast in winter. It dives and catches and eats fish in the water. In spring they migrate to higher latitudes to breed.
Habitat
Enoshima Island
I photographed an individual drifting near the embankment visible from Benten Bridge in Enoshima. It was swimming slowly in a range of about 10m radius.
Videos
The video of the Red-throated Loon.
Swam near the embankment.
Pictures
Introducing a picture of Red-throated Loon.
