How to Recognize the Calls of the Common Loon

There is nothing more thrilling than listening to the calls of the common loon. In the evening and early morning you can hear the distinct sounds. There are 4 calls of the loon with 4 distinct meanings.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A good ear for distinguishing sounds

1. Wail. This is a mournful call that shows the loon has become separated from its mate or from its chick. It's interesting to note that loons may mate for life.

2. Hoot. This is a pleasing call that shows curiosity or contentment. Loons spend their time in the water diving for fish. They are excellent swimmers.

3. Tremolo. This is the loon laugh. It's the sound of aggression or warning. Actually, loons are quite comfortable around people. They will swim near shore and near boats.

4. Yodel. This is a male call. It's a warning to stay out of the pair' s nesting area which is located close to the water. Loons avoid land except when nesting.

5. 
    

   This article is copy protected.

Tips & Warnings

• Loons fly South in winter and in summer stay on lakes and ponds.
• Loons are the size of large ducks.
• Chicks ride on their parent's back which is a marvelous sight to see.

Resources

• More Articles by Hapworth
• Sounds of the Loon

[brandy1123]

on 8/10/2008 great article

[Cherst1031]

on 8/10/2008 Thanks for this, I live near lots of water bodies, so I will keep a look out for loons.

[LilacGirl]

on 8/10/2008 I love loons and the sounds they make too. Terrific article.

[Gardengates]

on 8/10/2008 Thank you. It's all so soothing.

[vallain]

on 8/9/2008 Oh, I wish I'd written this. These are such wonderful birds. Here's a link to actually hear the sounds you describe: http://www.ns.ec.gc.ca/wildlife/loons/images.html