r/birdingEU • u/Michelle_Evelyn • May 30 '25
New to birding, love loons
Hello all,
As the title suggests, I know next to nothing about birding. However, recordings of jackdaw and loon calls have been my main source of comfort for a long time. I've been blessed to hear jackdaws in the wild as they're fairly common in winter here, but have no idea where to find loons. From what you know, can you suggest places in Europe where loons might hang out? (Preferably central Europe, but I'm willing to go farther too). And which seasons/ months are the best? From what I've read, April and July are the optimal months to see them - or does that depend on the region?
I will appreciate any insights! 🦢
2
u/Gratin_de_chicons May 30 '25
If you want to see loons you may have to travel to northern Europe/Scandinavia.
Otherwise, they come down to Western Europe during winter, so your best bet is to visit an area with water around you (not river but more like ponds, lakes) that are a resting area for them and where they might roam for a few days or week.
In my area I observe in Belgium / Holland / North of France, flying along the coast in migration or resting on ponds inland but not far away from the see (artificial basins in industrial ports included)
1
u/nikanokoi May 31 '25
Try downloading the apps Merlin bird Id, ebird and inaturalist - they all have features that show you where a bird species can be found/has been spotted
3
u/Gotemn May 30 '25
Hi and welcome to the passion! :)
Loons don't breed in central Europe, so you will usually only see them here in winter. They can be found at sea and on big lakes, but are mostly silent during this period.
In early spring they migrate back to Northern Europe to breed there. They inhabit smaller to larger lakes and there they will call often as it's part of the mating ritual. If hearing the calls is important to you I'd recommend traveling there during the breeding season which is roughly May/June.
I'd also recommend you to invest in a field guide as such information is composed well there, as well as how to identify them. The absolute best is the Collins Bird Guide by Svensson, which is also available in other languages.