The common loon, also known as the great northern diver, is a large aquatic bird found in North America and parts of Europe and Asia. It is a member of the loon family, which also includes the Pacific loon, red-throated loon, and yellow-billed loon. The common loon is easily recognizable by its black and white plumage, red eyes, and distinctive yodeling call.
Common loons are important members of the aquatic ecosystem, playing a vital role in the food chain. They are apex predators, feeding primarily on fish, but also consuming amphibians, reptiles, and aquatic insects. As such, they help to control populations of these animals and maintain the balance of the ecosystem. Additionally, common loons are important cultural symbols for many Native American tribes and have been featured in folklore and art for centuries.