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Calls of the common loon: What do they mean?

By Michelle Kelly

When you hear the loons calling across the water, do you ever wonder what they are saying? The loons have four common calls, each with a different meaning. Here's a lesson in loonie linguistics:

 

The wail is a long mournful call used to keep in touch with other loons nearby. It is most often heard in the evening.

Click here to hear the loon's wail.

 

The tremelo is made up of eight to 10 notes of varying frequency and intensity. This call tells us the loon is agitated or fearful of an intruder, be it predators, humans, or other loons.

Click here to hear the loon’s tremelo.

 

The hoot is a short, one-note call used as a gentle hello to checkup on family members. It’s not as intense or loud as the other calls.

Click here to hear the loon’s hoot.

 

The yodel is a long, rising, and repeating sound and the most macho of loon calls. Made by males only, it’s used to protect territory. If a loon sounds this call while you are nearby, it’s best to back off and give him some space.

Click here to hear the loon’s yodel.

 

Of course, there are also the well-known calls of the false loon, Cottageris impersonatoris, which attempts, usually badly, to mimic the cries of the loon. These calls are of varying tones and meaning, and truly defy categorization, except that almost all are considered embarrassing.

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Loon calls provided by Environment Canada.

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