Loons Gaviidae
This family is grouped into a single genus. Known in the Old World as divers, there are 5 species of loons, none of which are threatened. Some authorities consider the Pacific Loon Gavia pacifica, which is restricted to North America, a race of the Arctic Loon Gavia arctica. More study is needed to to shed more light on this taxonomic issue. Loons are restricted to the Northern Hemisphere, and are considered one of the most primitive of all living birds. They are very much at home in the water, but appear very awkward when rarely seen on land.

Gavia


There are 5 species within this genus.

Yellow-billed Loon Gavia adamsii on Lake Havasu, Arizona, February 2002.


Red-throated Loon Gavia stellata on Roper Lake, Safford, Arizona, December 2007.





Pacific Loon Gavia pacifica at Lakeside Park, Tucson, Arizona, December 2008.









NON-PASSERINES