National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Presidio of San FranciscoOld Coast Guard Station at Crissy Field at dusk
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Presidio of San Francisco
Red-throated Loon
(Gavia stellata)
 
Red-Throated Loon
© Alan Hopkins 2002
A Red-throated Loon swims at Crissy Marsh.
 

Natural History: This bird feeds on fish by pursuing them and diving into the water, but it also eats invertebrates. It is commonly found resting on water. This species nests in the arctic.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species can be found in bays and the ocean.

Frequency: This animal is abundantly found during the winter and spring and uncommon in the summer and fall.

Identifying Characteristics: During breeding season this species is distinguished by its gray neck and head with brick-red throat patch. It has a slightly upturned bill and often tilts its head slightly up.

Presidio Birds main page

U.S. Army major rank insignia  

Did You Know?
In 1915, a tragic fire at the Presidio claimed the lives of General Pershing’s wife and his three daughters. Pershing's son, Francis Warren, survived the blaze and chose to enlist in the army as a private during World War II. By the end of the war he had achieved the rank of major.

Last Updated: November 17, 2007 at 13:03 EST