Book 30, Question 59
How does a loon dive so deep?
A loon is a diving bird with heavy, solid bones that help it sink easily, unlike most birds with hollow bones.
It uses its big webbed feet, set far back on its body, to push through the water and chase fish. A loon can stay under for a minute or more and dive dozens of meters deep. Its legs are so far back that walking on land is awkward.
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Quick answers
How does a loon dive so deep?
Loons have heavy, solid bones that serve as underwater ballast and help them dive deep.
Source: Oregon State University
More fun facts
- The common loon can submerge for up to a minute in dives that can reach at least 200 feet, making it one the world’s best diving birds.
- The bones of most other flying birds are hollow and filled with air.
- To start with, Loons have web feet that are placed far back on their bodies.
- Common loons often swim with their head underwater, peering side to side, searching for fish or other prey.
- Common loons will often consume their prey underwater, instead of bringing it to the surface to eat.
- The common loon spends little time on land though, typically only going ashore to nest.
Sources: National Park Service, Oregon State University, National Wildlife Federation
Questions kids ask
How long can a common loon live?
Under the best circumstances a common loon can live 15-30 years.
Source: National Park Service