Common Loon chick
Gavia immer

f10 @ 1/2000s, ISO:1600, Nikon D300S w 300mm

\"Loon,\" Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Most clutches consist of two eggs, which are laid in May or June, depending upon latitude. Loon chicks are precocial, able to swim and dive right away, but will often ride on their parents\' back during their first 2 weeks to rest, conserve heat, and avoid predators. Chicks are fed mainly by their parents for about six weeks but gradually begin to feed themselves over time. By 11 or 12 weeks, chicks gather almost all of their own food and have learned to fly.

Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada

06/25/2012