Image via Macaulay Library
Yellow-billed Loon
- Scientific name
- Gavia adamsii
- Family
- Gaviidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Aquatic lake
- Wing shape
- Broad
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The yellow-billed loon, Gavia adamsii, is the largest member of the loon family, evolved to thrive in the harsh conditions of the high Arctic. Its evolutionary development, characterized by a heavy, upturned bill and distinctively broad wings, reflects an adaptation to long-distance migration and deep-water foraging. Scientists have long studied this species as a barometer for Arctic ecological health, noting its sensitivity to habitat shifts and industrial expansion in its northern breeding grounds.
The physical design of the species, particularly the pale, straw-colored bill that distinguishes it from other loons, was documented by taxonomist George Robert Gray in the mid-19th century. Gray named the species in honor of the naturalist Edward Adams, who contributed significantly to the study of Arctic fauna. Its reception among ornithologists is marked by a deep appreciation for its rarity and the relative mystery surrounding its remote, tundra-nesting habits.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Yellow-billed Loon
Yellow-billed Loon is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Yellow-billed Loon on collecto.rs?
Yellow-billed Loon doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Yellow-billed Loon?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Yellow-billed Loon catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Yellow-billed Loon is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
