Hey Folks,
I think of all the birds in the world, the loon has to be the most beautiful. I think the saying should be ‘beautiful as a loon’, not ‘crazy as a loon’. I’ve spent a bit of time watching loons lately, and have yet to seen them do anything crazy. But oh my, their beauty is immeasurable.
Absolutely amazing.
This pair are, according to my bird guide, ‘Arctic loons’, or Gavia arctica, as the Latin name would have it. I thought they were Pacific loons, or Gavia pacifica, but some other photos clearly show the front of the neck to be green more than purple. – so I’m gunna call them Arctic loons.
Of course, the same guidebook says the crown and nape are ‘pale gray’ – I saw a blend of creamy tones none of which could be described as ‘gray’, by even the most bland scientific measurement. So much for guidebooks and trying to be objective.
So here’s a ‘thank you’ to my new friends, the Arctic loons, the most beautiful birds in the world.
Cheers
Carl
I agree! Loons are very special, from the way they look to the way they sound. For me, they symbolise a calm summer’s evening by a remote lake. I don’t often get close enough to photograph them, but just hearing them is enough to make me happy.
A beautiful picture of a beautiful bird – thanks for sharing!
So true Carl! This a beautiful photograph that translates the beauty of the bird very well. Excellent.
Hey Minna
Thanks for the post. I never get close enough either. This time I was out my boat, a little kayak with the top cut out into a canoe. That was the only way I could get close enough for some images. And some of the loons I found on other ponds still wouldn’t let me get close. The 2 on this lake were great, they let me paddle up and take some pictures, if I did it slowly and cautiously. And I agree with you, isn’t that call just WAY too cool?
Hey Dave
Thanks man, I appreciate it.
Cheers
Carl