Red-throated Loon

The red-throated loon, called the red-throated diver in Britain and Ireland, is the smallest and lightest loon, measuring fifty-five to sixty-seven centimetres. Breeding adults show the reddish throat patch that gives the species its name, together with a grey head and patterned upperparts. Winter plumage is much plainer, grey above and white below. Unlike many waterbirds it sits low in the water, and its narrow body, pointed bill and feet placed far back are adaptations for swimming and diving. (Wikipedia, general species account)

This migratory aquatic bird breeds mainly around small pools in Arctic regions of the Northern Hemisphere and winters on northern coastal waters. Fish form most of its diet, although amphibians, invertebrates and plant matter are also eaten. Pairs form long-term bonds, and both adults help build the nest, incubate the usual two eggs and feed the young. Because its legs are set far back, the bird is awkward on land; nesting therefore takes place close to water, allowing direct access for escape and feeding. (Wikipedia, general species account)