Watercolor portrait of Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica)

Arctic Loon

Gavia arctica
Breeds across northern Eurasia and local… Breeds on deep, clear lakes in tundra an… Uncommon Rhythmic wail

Learn to identify the Arctic Loon by ear. Master the "kuh-WEEE... kuh-WEEE" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“kuh-WEEE... kuh-WEEE”

What the Arctic Loon sounds like

Elegant and cool-toned, the Arctic Loon in breeding plumage wears a soft gray head and hindneck, a glossy black throat patch, and crisp white striping down the neck. On calm water it looks sleek and low, often holding its slim bill slightly tipped up.

“kuh-WEEE... kuh-WEEE”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A rhythmic series that begins with a short introductory note, then swells into a long, loud, rising wail. Across a still lake, it sounds eerie, carrying far at dusk and even through the night. Often written as “kuh-WEEE... kuh-WEEE”.
Don't confuse with:The Common Loon — noticeably larger and heavier, with a thicker, straighter bill.

Where you'll hear it

Breeds on deep, clear lakes in tundra and northern forest, especially where there are islands or quiet shorelines to nest. In winter it shifts to sheltered coasts, bays, fjords, estuaries, and large inland seas.

Most conspicuous in late spring and summer, when pairs call over northern lakes and raise chicks on the water. During migration and winter, birds gather quietly on coastal waters, where they can be distant and tricky to pick out.

Similar species

Common Loon

Noticeably larger and heavier, with a thicker, straighter bill.

Pacific Loon

Very similar, and both species have a black throat patch in breeding plumage.

Red-throated Loon

Smaller and slimmer, with a finer bill that often looks even more upturned.

Arctic Loon sound FAQ

What does an Arctic Loon sound like?
A rhythmic series that begins with a short introductory note, then swells into a long, loud, rising wail. Across a still lake, it sounds eerie, carrying far at dusk and even through the night. Listen for the "kuh-WEEE... kuh-WEEE" phrase.
How do I tell an Arctic Loon from a Common Loon by sound?
Common Loon: Noticeably larger and heavier, with a thicker, straighter bill.; Breeding birds have a blacker head and larger square white spots on the back.; Arctic Loon shows the cleaner white flank patch and often holds the bill at a slight upward angle..
When is the best time to hear an Arctic Loon?
Most conspicuous in late spring and summer, when pairs call over northern lakes and raise chicks on the water. During migration and winter, birds gather quietly on coastal waters, where they can be distant and tricky to pick out.