Last updated: August 12, 2024
Thing to Do
Common Loon
NPS photo by Tim Rains.
Gavia immer
Breeding adult loons have black and white checkering on the back, a black bill, red eyes, and an iridescent green head and neck. The neck has a black and white chinstrap and a distinctive collar.
They have four common calls: a wail, for long-distance communication; a yodel, used as a territorial signal by males only; a tremolo, a staccato call usually from an agitated adult; a hoot, a contact call often between adults or adults and their young.
One-fifth of Montana’s nesting loons are in Glacier National Park. Because of their limited range, small population, sensitivity to human disturbance, and loss of breeding habitats outside of the park, they are listed as a Species of Special Concern in Montana. Human disturbance along shores or getting too close to these birds can cause stress and may cause them to abandon their nests.
Breeding adult loons have black and white checkering on the back, a black bill, red eyes, and an iridescent green head and neck. The neck has a black and white chinstrap and a distinctive collar.
They have four common calls: a wail, for long-distance communication; a yodel, used as a territorial signal by males only; a tremolo, a staccato call usually from an agitated adult; a hoot, a contact call often between adults or adults and their young.
One-fifth of Montana’s nesting loons are in Glacier National Park. Because of their limited range, small population, sensitivity to human disturbance, and loss of breeding habitats outside of the park, they are listed as a Species of Special Concern in Montana. Human disturbance along shores or getting too close to these birds can cause stress and may cause them to abandon their nests.
Details
Activity
Birdwatching
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Lakes
Common loons can be seen or heard near large ponds and lakes throughout the park in the summer. Lake McDonald is a frequent stopover area for loons in the spring and fall.
Reservations
No
Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
In addition to driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road and other park roads, the Running Eagle Falls Nature Trail, the Swiftcurrent Nature Trail, and the Trail of the Cedars are three of Glacier’s most accessible areas.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.
Improvements in accessibility are being made each year, and with a bit of pre-planning, all visitors can find Glacier to be a rewarding experience. Details on Glacier's accessible facilities and services can be found on the park's website nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm.