Loons are not the only predator that has a rather low capture rate. Certainly, when I watch loons fish, I marvel at how often they dive to no apparent effect. Yet, sometimes….
A Common Loon swam by this morning and repeatedly dived after fish, but came up with nothing. Yet, for all that, it certainly is looking good.
On one occasion, the loon surfaced with a comestible and then swallowed it. I have no idea what it found. Any ideas?
I don’t know what it has but your photos look like stunning watercolours.
Let us know if you find out what it is. Looks questionable
Look like an old barnacle
Neoprene feathers tightly wrapping the head like a skull cap.
It looks like it may be a freshwater mollusc. Kootenay Lake was known to have “three-ridged valvatas” in the past… I also read that loons eat stones.
Gorgeous photos, Alistair! The loon certainly does look handsome.